Neuron–astrocyte communication and synaptic plasticity

By forming close contacts with synapses, astrocytes secrete neuroactive substances and remove neurotransmitters, thus influencing the processing of information by the nervous system. Here, we review recent work on astrocytes and their roles in regulating neuronal function and synaptic plasticity. As...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Current opinion in neurobiology 2010-08, Vol.20 (4), p.466-473
Main Authors: Paixão, Sónia, Klein, Rüdiger
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Animals
Astrocytes
Astrocytes - physiology
Behavior, Animal - physiology
Brain - cytology
Brain - physiology
Cell Communication - physiology
Communication
Information processing
Nervous system
Neural networks
Neurology
Neuronal Plasticity - physiology
Neurons
Neurons - physiology
Neurotransmitter Agents - metabolism
Neurotransmitters
Plasticity (synaptic)
Psychiatry
Reviews
Synapses
Synapses - physiology
Synaptic transmission
Synaptic Transmission - physiology
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Summary:By forming close contacts with synapses, astrocytes secrete neuroactive substances and remove neurotransmitters, thus influencing the processing of information by the nervous system. Here, we review recent work on astrocytes and their roles in regulating neuronal function and synaptic plasticity. Astrocytes are organized as networks and communicate with each other, thereby affecting larger neural circuits. They also provide a link between neurons and the vasculature, potentially changing the cerebral microcirculation. Recent work has provided insights into the relative contributions of specific astrocytic cues and transporters to synaptic transmission, plasticity, and animal behavior.
ISSN:0959-4388
1873-6882
DOI:10.1016/j.conb.2010.04.008