Glial cells are the most numerous cells in the human brain but for many years have attracted little scientific attention. Neurophysiologists concentrated their research efforts instead, on neurones and neuronal networks because it was thought that they were the key elements responsible for higher brain function. Recent advances, however, indicate this isn’t exactly the case. Not only are astroglial cells the stem elements from which neurones are born, but they also control the development, functional activity and death of neuronal circuits. These ground-breaking developments have revolutionized our understanding of the human brain and the complex interrelationship of glial and neuronal networks in health and disease.

Authored by leading experts in the field, Glial Neurobiology  provides a concise, authoritative introduction to glial physiology and pathology.

The book presents all major types of glial pathology; topics include: the morphology and interrelationships between glial cells and neurones in different parts of the nervous system; intra and inter cellular signaling in glial networks; the role of glial cells in synaptic plasticity, neuronal survival and development of nervous system; cellular and molecular mechanisms of metabolic neuronal-glial interactions; and the role of glia in nervous system pathology.

• Profoundly illustrated with figures, including unique images from the authors’ own libraries of images
• Includes numerous text boxes to highlight and summarize key facts
• Features an associated website

This textbook is invaluable to undergraduate and postgraduate neuroscience, biomedical, medical, pharmacy, pharmacology, neurology, neurosurgery, and physiology students. Furthermore, this title is of interest to professionals and researchers in neuroscience, physiology, pharmacology and pharmaceutics.