Two decades of astrocytes in neurovascular coupling.
Level 5 - mechanism / opinion, no new human data
Narrative review synthesizing mechanistic and experimental literature without systematic review methodology
PubMed 37078069 · doi:10.3389/fnetp.2023.1162757
What was done
This narrative review synthesizes two decades of experimental research on the cellular and molecular mechanisms of neurovascular coupling (functional hyperemia). The authors examine how astrocytes act as intermediaries between neuronal activity and cerebral blood flow regulation, review historical and ongoing controversies in the field, and discuss methodological approaches and pathological conditions associated with impaired neurovascular coupling.
What was found
The abstract presents no quantitative data or specific numerical findings. It provides a qualitative overview describing astrocytes as spatial relays positioned to sense synaptic activity via perisynaptic processes and release vasoactive agents through perivascular endfeet to modulate regional blood flow.
Why it matters
Understanding astrocyte-mediated regulation of cerebral blood flow provides insight into basic brain physiology and the biological basis of functional neuroimaging techniques, as well as disease states characterized by neurovascular dysfunction.
Limits
The abstract describes a non-systematic narrative review without structured search criteria, predefined study selection protocols, or risk of bias assessment. The primary evidence base consists predominantly of preclinical mechanistic and animal research rather than direct clinical trial data.
Cited by
- partial The human brain accounts for 30% of total energy utilization in the human body.