Lipid droplets in astrocytes: Key organelles for CNS homeostasis and disease (Review)

Astrocytes, the predominant glial cells within the central nervous system, participate in a variety of processes, including metabolic homeostasis, regulation of blood‑brain barrier function, and the integration of neuronal function and structure. Lipids, which are critical components of astrocyte architecture and functionality, play a pivotal role in energy production, membrane fluidity, and the integration of astrocyte‑neuronal structure and function via lipid droplet storage and lipid metabolism. Research indicates that the proper storage of lipid droplets (LDs) in astrocytes is essential for maintaining normal physiological functions of the CNS. Fatty acids released from astrocyte LDs undergo β‑oxidation within mitochondria and are intricately linked to neuronal inflammatory signaling, oxidative stress and mitochondrial energy production. Furthermore, dysregulated lipid metabolism in astrocytes is strongly linked to the onset and progression of neurological disorders. The alteration of lipid metabolic profiles in astrocytes across various microenvironments, along with the identification and screening of critical lipid metabolites, has emerged as a focal point in current research. Nonetheless, the precise mechanisms through which aberrant lipid metabolism in astrocytes influences the onset and progression of neurodegenerative diseases require further elucidation. This article seeks to synthesize recent advancements in the study of LDs‑key organelles responsible for lipid homeostasis in astrocytes‑to elucidate the response characteristics and underlying mechanisms of lipid metabolism in these cells. Furthermore, it aims to investigate the therapeutic potential of inhibiting abnormal lipid secretion and excessive lipid accumulation in astrocytes in the context of neurodegenerative disease progression.