ASTROCYTES (NEUROGLIAL CELLS) in the BRAIN--many associated with a brain CAPILLARY, 100X - stock photo

ASTROCYTES (NEUROGLIAL CELLS) in the BRAIN--many associated with a brain CAPILLARY, 100X. This image shows numerous Astrocytes with processes that extend toward the brain capillary (dark, tubular structure) and form an intimate associations called Perivascular Feet. Astrocytes are star-shaped cells that are likely multifunctional: support, metabolism of substances such as glucose, regulation of potassium ions, nutritive functions, etc. There are four types of Neuroglia (glial cells), astrocytes are one of the types of neuroglia. An Astrocytoma is a tumor made up of astrocytes.