Astrocytes are characteristic star-shaped glial cells in the brain and spinal cord. They are crucial in forming the blood-brain barrier through biochemical support of endothelial cells, providing nutrients to the nervous tissue, maintaining of extracellular ion balance and healing of the brain and spinal cord from traumatic injuries. OriCell Fischer 344 (F344) Rat Cortical Astrocytes are derived from the cortex of newborn F344 rats, and cyropreserved as primary cells. They are tested negative for bacteria, fungi and mycoplasma.