Astrocytes are glial cells that play a crucial role in 
providing a supportive environment for neurons, mainly by cell
cell 
interactions mediating numerous physiological and 
biochemical functions in the central nervous system (CNS). 
Astrocytes are also critical for intercellular signaling in the 
neurovascular unit. Although numerous reports have detailed the 
complex effects of astrocytes upon neurons in neurodegenerative 
disease, whether or not astrocytes act as initiators or contributors 
in the pathogenesis of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) 
remains unclear. A broad overview of astrocytes’ link to motor 
neuron degeneration in ALS, as well as specific functions of 
astrocytes within the neurovascular unit is presented. This review 
summarizes current knowledge of the astrocyte’s role in disease 
pathogenesis and discusses the potential of the astrocyte as a 
target for future ALS therapies.