Mossy cells(MC)are a type of astrocyte that make up a large percentage of the cells in the hippocampal dentate gyrus(DG).However,its structure,function and role in neurological disorders remain largely unclear.Changes in local circuit inputs to MC during seizures alter the excitatory-inhibitory homeostatic balance of the loop,leading to changes in disease.The net inhibitory effect on the hippocampal network exerted by surviving MC,thus providing protection against seizures.Furthermore,increased expression of c-fos protein in MC enhances memory for novelty and also improves cognitive performance by reducing anxiety.This article reviews the role of MC in the dentate gyrus loop and its value in disease management.