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RPS International Images for Science Support Act
31 December 2017

Support Act

This swirling galaxy is made up of astrocytes – star-shaped cells found in the brain. For a long time they were thought to be little more than biological glue, holding together the apparently far more interesting and important neurons. But scientists are discovering that there’s much more to these unassuming cells than a mere supporting role. As well as providing essential physical support for structures in the brain, astrocytes are responsible for controlling patterns of blood flow in the brain and providing vital nutrients to nerve cells. They also act as cellular ‘gardeners’, snipping away unwanted connections (synapses) between neurons and making sure they’re wired up correctly, and play a far more important role in thinking and cognition than previously believed. While most research into neurodegenerative diseases such as dementia have focused on neurons, it’s becoming clear that these overlooked astrocytes also play an important role in maintaining a healthy brain.

Written by Kat Arney

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What is BPoD?

BPoD stands for Biomedical Picture of the Day. Managed by the MRC Laboratory of Medical Sciences until Jul 2023, it is now run independently by a dedicated team of scientists and writers. The website aims to engage everyone, young and old, in the wonders of biology, and its influence on medicine. The ever-growing archive of more than 4000 research images documents over a decade of progress. Explore the collection and see what you discover. Images are kindly provided for inclusion on this website through the generosity of scientists across the globe.

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BPoD is also available in Catalan at www.bpod.cat with translations by the University of Valencia.