THE ROLE OF ASTROCYTES IN THE HOMEOSTASIS MAINTAINING IN THE NERVE TISSUE

The article is devoted to a review of literature data about the main astrocyte functions, which are important for the normal nervous system functioning. The maintaining of potassium concentration in the extracellular fluid is described; as well, astrocytes function as a buffer for potassium ions by the rectifying potassium channels type Kir 4.1. Also, the role of 4th type aquaporin (AQR4) is describe, wich are localized on the astrocytes legs and take part in the water balance regulation in the brain tissue. Data are presented, wich showing the role of astrocytes in the maintaining of cerebral vessels tone by balancing the processes of vasodilatation/vasocontraction by calcium-dependent, glutamate-dependent and other mechanisms.