Gliosis
Gliosis
Gliosis (/ɡliˈoʊsɪs/) is a process that occurs in the Central Nervous System (CNS) in response to injury or disease. It involves the proliferation of glial cells, which are non-neuronal cells that provide support and protection for neurons in the CNS.
Etymology
The term "gliosis" is derived from the Greek word "glia," which means "glue," and the suffix "-osis," which denotes a process or condition. The term was coined to describe the appearance of the CNS following injury, where the proliferation of glial cells gives the appearance of a glue-like substance filling in the damaged areas.
Process
When the CNS is injured or diseased, glial cells, including astrocytes and microglia, proliferate and change in morphology and function. This process is known as reactive gliosis. The extent and characteristics of gliosis can vary depending on the type and severity of the injury or disease.
Related Terms
- Astrocyte: A type of glial cell that is involved in the formation of the blood-brain barrier and the regulation of ion concentration in the extracellular space.
- Microglia: A type of glial cell that acts as the primary form of active immune defense in the CNS.
- Neuroinflammation: Inflammation of the nervous tissue that can be caused by a variety of factors, including infection, traumatic brain injury, and autoimmune diseases. Gliosis is often associated with neuroinflammation.
- Neurodegeneration: The progressive loss of structure or function of neurons, including death of neurons. Gliosis is often observed in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Gliosis
- Wikipedia's article - Gliosis
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