Fat processing, changing, and sharing between cells in the brain and spinal cord

Lipid metabolism is essential for maintaining cellular homeostasis in the lipid-rich central nervous system (CNS).

• Lipid remodelling and transfer between glial cells and neurons are crucial for CNS lipid homeostasis.
• Key pathways involved include lipid biogenesis, breakdown, oxidation, and phospholipid metabolism.
• Cell-to-cell lipid transfer occurs via mechanisms such as lipoproteins, extracellular vesicles, and tunnelling nanotubes.
• Dysregulation of lipid metabolism pathways may contribute to neurodegenerative diseases.
• Environmental factors, diet, and lifestyle are associated with changes in CNS lipid metabolism.

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