Dysregulation of Astrocyte Ion Homeostasis and Its Relevance for Stroke-Induced Brain Damage |
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Authors: | Michel J.A.M. van Putten Christoph Fahlke Karl W. Kafitz Jeannette Hofmeijer Christine R. Rose |
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Affiliation: | 1.Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, University of Twente, 7522 NB Enschede, The Netherlands; (M.J.A.M.v.P.); (J.H.);2.Institut für Biologische Informationsprozesse, Molekular-und Zellphysiologie (IBI-1), Forschungszentrum Jülich, 52425 Jülich, Germany;3.Institute of Neurobiology, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; |
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Abstract: | Ischemic stroke is a leading cause of mortality and chronic disability. Either recovery or progression towards irreversible failure of neurons and astrocytes occurs within minutes to days, depending on remaining perfusion levels. Initial damage arises from energy depletion resulting in a failure to maintain homeostasis and ion gradients between extra- and intracellular spaces. Astrocytes play a key role in these processes and are thus central players in the dynamics towards recovery or progression of stroke-induced brain damage. Here, we present a synopsis of the pivotal functions of astrocytes at the tripartite synapse, which form the basis of physiological brain functioning. We summarize the evidence of astrocytic failure and its consequences under ischemic conditions. Special emphasis is put on the homeostasis and stroke-induced dysregulation of the major monovalent ions, namely Na+, K+, H+, and Cl−, and their involvement in maintenance of cellular volume and generation of cerebral edema. |
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Keywords: | stroke core penumbra sodium potassium pH chloride glutamate transport edema cell swelling |
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