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Tofaili H, Al-Masri A, Faour L, Kanso N, Jammoul M, Al-Moughrabi A, et al . Beyond Neurons: The Integral Role of Glial Cells in Cognitive Function, Pathology, and Treatment. Neuroscience Updates 2024; 2 (1) :25-45
URL: http://neuroupdates.de/article-1-110-en.html
Beyond Neurons: The Integral Role of Glial Cells in Cognitive Function, Pathology, and Treatment
Hawraa Tofaili1 , Asmaa Al-Masri1 , Lama Faour2 , Nourhan Kanso3 , Maher Jammoul1 , Ahmad Al-Moughrabi1 , Alaa Younes1 , Ragheb Al Mokdad1 , Rim Karaki1 , Aya Zaraket1 , Jamil Nasrallah *1
1- Lebanese University, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Beirut, Lebanon
2- Lebanese American University, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Beirut, Lebanon
3- Medical Learning Skills Academy, Beirut, Lebanon
Abstract:   (9208 Views)

The brain architecture, once thought to be dominated by neurons, has revealed an equally compelling role played by neuroglia. Initially perceived as merely supportive entities, glial cells have emerged as crucial contributors to brain functionality and integrity. This review highlights the pivotal roles of principal CNS neuroglial cells astrocytes, microglia, and oligodendrocytes in shaping synaptic plasticity, cognition, and behavior. It then highlights their critical role in the pathology of cognitive and behavioral disorders and sheds light on novel glial cell-targeting interventions for treating such conditions. This review expands our comprehension of brain function and stresses the critical importance of glial cells in future neurological and psychiatric research and treatment strategies. The emphasis on glial cells opens up new pharmacological frontiers, offering hope for more effective remedies for neurological and psychiatric conditions where current treatments have limited success.

Keywords: Neuroglia, Astrocytes, Microglia, Oligodendrocytes, Neurodegenerative disorders, Neurodevelopmental disorders, Neuropsychiatric disorders, Cognition, Behavior
Full-Text [PDF 612 kb]   (3625 Downloads)    
Type of Study: Review Article | Subject: Cognitive Neuroscience
Received: 2023/12/20 | Accepted: 2024/02/15 | Published: 2024/04/30
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