Glia Signalling during Neurological Damage and Disease

Abstract

While glia were once thought to be nothing more than glue‐like cells that hold the nervous system together, there is growing evidence that signals to and from glia are indispensable for development, cell‐to‐cell communication and maintenance of efficient nervous system function. Several studies show that glia often receive conflicting signals during disease progression and can play dual roles as both antagonists and neuroprotectors in distinct settings. Key Concepts Glia play neuroprotective and neurodegenerative role during the initiation and progression stage of neurodegenerative diseases. Astrocytes mediate calcium‐related neurotoxicity in Alzheimer's disease. Microglia regulate neurodegeneration in Parkinson's disease through NO‐related apoptotic pathway. Oligodendrocytes and Schwann cells regulate myelin wasting diseases in central and peripheral nervous system through Wnt and ErbB2/ErbB3 signalling pathways. Glial cells form a scar following spinal cord injury that affects regenerative abilities.