| Name: | astrocyte |
|---|---|
| Synonyms: | astrocytes |
| Definition: | A class of large neuroglial (macroglial) cells in the central nervous system - the largest and most numerous neuroglial cells in the brain and spinal cord. Astrocytes (from 'star' cells) are irregularly shaped with many long processes, including those with 'end feet' which form the glial (limiting) membrane and directly and indirectly contribute to the blood-brain barrier. They regulate the extracellular ionic and chemical environment, and 'reactive astrocytes' (along with microglia) respond to injury. |
| Ontology: | Anatomy Ontology [ZFA:0009075] |
| Name: | lysosome |
|---|---|
| Synonyms: | |
| Definition: | A small lytic vacuole that has cell cycle-independent morphology found in most animal cells and that contains a variety of hydrolases, most of which have their maximal activities in the pH range 5-6. The contained enzymes display latency if properly isolated. About 40 different lysosomal hydrolases are known and lysosomes have a great variety of morphologies and functions. |
| Ontology: | GO: Cellular Component [GO:0005764] QuickGO AmiGO |