Role of astrocytes in neuroinflammation (review)

Objective: to present up-to-date scientific information concerning the role of astrocytes in neuroinflammation. A total of 63 publications were analyzed, obtained from Cochrane Library and PubMed using the following search queries: "astrocytes and neuroinflammation", "reactive astrocytes", "neuroglia and neuroinflammation". 45 publications were selected for the review. The analyzed literature was published in the year range of 2000 to 2020. It comes to a conclusion that the role of astrocytes in neuroinflammation is controversial. The cells have both protective and destructive effects. It is important to understand that the activity of reactive astrocytes depends on their topographic location and microenvironment, as well as mediators that are secreted by CNS resident and non-resident cells. Understanding the role of astrocytes in neuroinflammation and their regulatory mechanisms is necessary for the implementation of their therapeutic potential.