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Scientists discover never-before-seen type of brain cell

Live Science
Summary
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76% Informative

A unique type of astrocyte is a star-shaped cell that supports communication between brain cells.

It stabilizes the brain's protective barrier and regulates neurons' balances of charged particles and signalling molecules.

Until now, less was known about their white-matter counterparts.

The researchers identified two distinct types of white matter cells.

One type performed the role of a "housekeeper" that supported nerve fibers and aided neurons in communicating with one another.