| umls-concept:C0004112 | skos:definition | MSH: A class of large neuroglial (macroglial) cells in the central nervous system - the largest and most numerous neuroglial cells in the brain and spinal cord. Astrocytes (from "star" cells) are irregularly shaped with many long processes, including those with "end feet" which form the glial (limiting) membrane and directly and indirectly contribute to the BLOOD-BRAIN BARRIER. They regulate the extracellular ionic and chemical environment, and "reactive astrocytes" (along with MICROGLIA) respond to injury.,CSP: neuroglial CNS cells of ectodermal origin characterized by fibrous, protoplasmic, or plasmatofibrous processes.,NCI: A large, star-shaped cell that holds nerve cells in place and helps them develop and work the way they should. An astrocyte is a type of glial cell.,NCI: The largest and most numerous neuroglial cells in the brain and spinal cord. Astrocytes are irregularly shaped with many long processes, including those with "end feet" which form the glial (limiting) membrane and directly and indirect | lld:umls |
