Generation of Astrocyte Cultures from Normal and Neoplastic Central Nervous System
1990; Elsevier BV; Linguagem: Inglês
10.1016/b978-0-12-185254-2.50007-3
ISSN1043-9471
Autores Tópico(s)Neuroinflammation and Neurodegeneration Mechanisms
ResumoThis chapter discusses the generation of astrocyte cultures from normal and neoplastic central nervous system. Astrocytes represent the major cell type in the central nervous system (CNS). Recently it has become clear that these glial cells perform important and varied roles in the CNS. Situated in and around neurons and their processes, and maintaining close contact via end feet with the vasculature, these cells are implicated in neuronal guidance and in the trophic support of neurons and promotion of local neuritic outgrowth. Astrocytes are implicated in a variety of CNS pathologies, including hepatic encephalopathy, seizure, scar formation, and trauma. The majority of neoplasms in the CNS arise from astrocytes. These range from well-differentiated astrocytomas (reasonably benign), through anaplastic astrocytomas, to highly malignant and undifferentiated glioblastomas multiforme. The chapter describes simple, rapid, and highly reproducible methods to derive primary cultures of astrocytes from rat and human brain, which find use in a variety of studies ranging from cell product analysis through to their transplantation into hosts.
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