The Role of Astrocytes in the Pathogenesis of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis

Astrocytes are glial cells that play a crucial role in providing a supportive environment for neurons, mainly by cellcell interactions mediating numerous physiological and biochemical functions in the central nervous system (CNS). Astrocytes are also critical for intercellular signaling in the neurovascular unit. Although numerous reports have detailed the complex effects of astrocytes upon neurons in neurodegenerative disease, whether or not astrocytes act as initiators or contributors in the pathogenesis of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) remains unclear. A broad overview of astrocytes’ link to motor neuron degeneration in ALS, as well as specific functions of astrocytes within the neurovascular unit is presented. This review summarizes current knowledge of the astrocyte’s role in disease pathogenesis and discusses the potential of the astrocyte as a target for future ALS therapies.