Astrocytes are the major cell type in the mammalian brain. They provide a variety of supportive functions for their partner neurons in the central nervous system, such as neuronal guidance during development, ion and water homeostasis, blood flow regulation, neurotransmission, energy metabolism, and immune defense. Astrocytes have also been implicated in various pathological processes. Impairment of normal astrocyte functions during stroke and other insults can critically influence neuron survival. Long-term recovery after brain injury, through neurite outgrowth, synaptic plasticity, or neuron regeneration, is also influenced by astrocyte surface molecule expression and trophic factor release. Numerous studies have demonstrated that astrocytes are among the most functionally diverse group of cells in the CNS. Cultured mouse astrocytes are a useful in vitro model for studying the molecular and cellular properties of the central nervous system.
Recommended Medium
It is recommended to use Astrocyte Medium-animal (AM-a, Cat. No. SC1831) for culturing MA-bs in vitro.
Product Use
MA-bs are for research use only. They are not approved for human or animal use, or for application in in vitro diagnostic procedures.
Storage
Upon receiving, directly and immediately transfer the cells from dry ice to liquid nitrogen and keep the cells in liquid nitrogen until they are needed for experiments.
Shipping
Dry ice.
Warranty
Cells are only warranted if ScienCell media and reagents are used and the recommended protocols are followed.