The brain is the body’s most vulnerable organ due to the defined roles of neurons within circuits. Neurons are vastly outnumbered by microglia, astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, macrophages, cells of the blood brain barrier and invading immune cells. These cells display different grades of reactivities and interactions. They integrate their responses and not only change phenotypes but can also completely reprogram after damage to protect the neuronal complexity. The interactions of these satellite cells in the healthy brain are described as well as their roles in all major brain diseases. Special emphasis is put on immune system – brain interactions and regenerative and repair processes. The gliotic response is compared with the reactions to injuries of the skin and other organs. A final chapter addresses the definition of a cell type. It concludes that cell types can no longer be regarded as defined entities over the body’s lifetime but are prone to phenotype plasticity and even completereprograming.
- ISBN13 9783031481048
- Publish Date 25 January 2024
- Publish Status Active
- Publish Country CH
- Imprint Springer International Publishing AG
- Edition 1st ed. 2023
- Format Hardcover
- Pages 249
- Language English