The article "Astrocytes: Biology and Pathology" by Michael V. Sofroniew and Harry V. Vinters provides a comprehensive overview of the biology and pathology of astrocytes, specialized glial cells that outnumber neurons in the central nervous system (CNS). Astrocytes play crucial roles in maintaining the healthy CNS, including synaptic transmission, information processing, and regulation of blood flow and homeostasis. The authors discuss the recent advancements in understanding the functions and mechanisms of reactive astrogliosis, a process where astrocytes respond to CNS insults through a spectrum of molecular, cellular, and functional changes. These changes can range from reversible alterations to long-lasting scar formation, and they are regulated by specific signaling events. The article highlights the potential of reactive astrogliosis to contribute to or cause CNS disorders through both loss of normal functions and gain of abnormal effects. Key topics include the basic morphology and molecular markers of astrocytes, their roles in development, regulation of blood flow, fluid and ion homeostasis, synapse function, energy metabolism, and the blood-brain barrier. The authors also explore the heterogeneity of astrocytes and the potential for specialized functions in different brain regions. Finally, they discuss the mechanisms and functions of reactive astrogliosis and glial scar formation, emphasizing their importance in both beneficial and detrimental contexts in CNS disorders.The article "Astrocytes: Biology and Pathology" by Michael V. Sofroniew and Harry V. Vinters provides a comprehensive overview of the biology and pathology of astrocytes, specialized glial cells that outnumber neurons in the central nervous system (CNS). Astrocytes play crucial roles in maintaining the healthy CNS, including synaptic transmission, information processing, and regulation of blood flow and homeostasis. The authors discuss the recent advancements in understanding the functions and mechanisms of reactive astrogliosis, a process where astrocytes respond to CNS insults through a spectrum of molecular, cellular, and functional changes. These changes can range from reversible alterations to long-lasting scar formation, and they are regulated by specific signaling events. The article highlights the potential of reactive astrogliosis to contribute to or cause CNS disorders through both loss of normal functions and gain of abnormal effects. Key topics include the basic morphology and molecular markers of astrocytes, their roles in development, regulation of blood flow, fluid and ion homeostasis, synapse function, energy metabolism, and the blood-brain barrier. The authors also explore the heterogeneity of astrocytes and the potential for specialized functions in different brain regions. Finally, they discuss the mechanisms and functions of reactive astrogliosis and glial scar formation, emphasizing their importance in both beneficial and detrimental contexts in CNS disorders.