Characterization of Astrocytic Response after Experiencing Cavitation In Vitro (Global Challenges 7/2020)

Low‐pressure regions inside the skull can cause vapor contents in the cerebral spinal fluid to expand and collapse in traumatic brain injury (TBI). Using cell‐laden microfibers, Nicole N. Hashemi and co‐workers visually analyzed the longitudinal morphological response that astrocytes express to surrounding cavitation in vitro. Genetic analytics were conducted post‐cavitation to show drastic upregulation in TBI‐related genes. Astrocytes are known to be neurotoxic after cranial insult, and this study, described in article 1900014, confirms the adverse effects that cavitation has on the astrocytic phenotype.