The Importance of Astrocytes in Neural Conduction: A Paradigm Shift in Neuroscience

Abstract

Astrocytes, once relegated to the role of mere 'support cells' in the central nervous system, areemerging as key players in neural conduction and overall brain function. This article aims toelucidate the multifaceted roles of astrocytes, exploring why they have been historicallyovershadowed by neurons and how they contribute to the complexity of brain wave patterns.Through a series of computational simulations and a comprehensive review of existing literature,we demonstrate that astrocytes are not just passive bystanders but active participants in neuralsignaling. The article also discusses the implications of astrocyte function for cognitive abilitieslike learning, memory, and attention, as well as their role in pathological conditions like epilepsy.With 15 pertinent references, this article serves as a comprehensive review that challenges theneuron-centric view of brain function and calls for a reevaluation of the roles of astrocytes inneuroscience.