Astrocyte morphology: complex or trivial?

Kriuchechnikova, A.; Soldatova, A.; Tiaglik, A.; Tang, Y.; Brazhe, A.

Авторы: Kriuchechnikova Anna, Soldatova Anastasia, Tiaglik Alisa, Tang Yong, Brazhe Alexey
Журнал: Biophysical Reviews
Год издания: 2025
Издательство: Springer Verlag
Местоположение издательства: Germany
DOI: 10.1007/s12551-025-01402-x
Аннотация: Astrocyte morphology, a key element of CNS function, emerges from a dynamic interplay of molecular cues, intercellular interactions, and physical constraints. It is often referred to as “complex” and “dynamic.” This review synthesizes current picture of how astrocyte morphogenesis is shaped at different levels from cell adhesion and molecular cues to overarching cell lineage and anatomical placement. We review how motile astrocyte leaflets actively participate in synaptic plasticity through structural dynamics that regulate neurotransmission. Conversely, pathological disruptions in these local mechanisms, from leaflets to endfeet, cascade to macroscale morphological changes linked to dysfunctional synaptic regulation, excitability, and metabolism. Next, we review mathematical approaches to model and analyze branching morphologies with a focus on astrocytes, but also making incursions to adjacent fields, regarding morphologies of neurons, other glial cells, or mitochondrial networks. Despite significant advances, open remain fundamental questions regarding the principles governing this apparent structural complexity: the balance between stochastic and regulated growth, the physiology-based optimality of morphology, and the functional significance of tiling. Furthermore, the transition from physiological to pathological extent of structural motility in conditions like depression and neurodegeneration requires further research. We argue that resolving these questions necessitates the broader adoption of quantitative analytical frameworks based on graph theory and applied topology. Rapid progress in open-source computational tools, including deep learning approaches, promises an imminent breakthrough in understanding astrocyte morphology in CNS health and disease.
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Astrocyte morphology: complex or trivial?статья

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