Tanycytes -strange multi-role cells in the brain

What is it about?

Tanycytes are strange cells in the brain. They contact the fluid filled interior of the brain and are next to the feeding centers , which control appetite, energy expenditure and fat storage. They can sense the composition of the brain's internal environment and have the possibility of conveying this information to the neural circuits of the feeding centers. They are also adult stem cells that can produce new neurons, which can participate in the control of feeding.

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Why is it important?

Tanycytes have been overlooked and poorly understood for a long time. Recently they have become sexy and interesting. Our review integrates what is known about these cells. We suggest that the sensing and signaling roles of tanycytes may be related to their ability to act as adult stem cells. We propose new avenues of investigation to advance the field.