A recent study published in Science highlights the role of astrocytes, star-shaped cells found in the brain and spinal cord, in regulating respiration by ’sensing’ changes in the concentration of carbon dioxide in the blood and stimulating neurons to regulate respiration.

Astrocytes have been traditionally thought to just provide structural and metabolic support for other cells, so this new information adds an unexpected role in controlling breathing.

Find a link to the paper abstract here

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