Astrocyte–Neuron Communication: Functional Consequences

Abstract

Astrocyte-neuron communication has recently been proposed as a potential mechanism participating to synaptic transmission. With the development of this concept and accumulating evidences in favor of a modulation of synaptic transmission by astrocytes, has emerged the term gliotransmission. It refers to the capacity of astrocytes to release various transmitters, such as ATP, glutamate, D-serine, and GABA in the vicinity of synapses. While the cellular mechanisms involved in gliotransmission still need to be better described and, for some, identified, the aim of more and more studies is to determine the role of astrocytes from a functional point of view. This review will summarize the principal studies that have investigated a potential role of astrocytes in the various functions regulated by the brain (sleep, breathing, perception, learning and memory…). This will allow us to highlight the similarities and discrepancies in the signaling pathways involved in the different areas of the brain related to these functions.

Diet supplemented with pancreatic-like enzymes of microbial origin restores the hippocampal neuronal plasticity and behaviour in young pigs with experimental exocrine pancreatic insufficiency

“…The observed astrocytes were smaller and thus exhibited reduced GFAP-positive staining. Astrocytes, once relegated to a mere supportive role in the central nervous system, are now recognised as a heterogeneous class of cells with many important and diverse functions (Ben Achour & Pascual, 2012). Major astrocyte functions can be grouped into three categories: guidance and support of neuronal migration during development, maintenance of the neural microenvironment, and modulation of immune reactions by serving as antigen-presenting cells.…”

Astroglial potassium clearance contributes to short‐term plasticity of synaptically evoked currents at the tripartite synapse

“…Recent data suggest that astrocytes play an important role in behavioural states and cognitive functions (Ben Achour & Pascual, 2012). Astrocytes integrate neuronal activity through their membrane channels, receptors and transporters, and can transmit information, in part, by complex calcium responses.…”

Neurospheres on Patterned PEDOT:PSS Microelectrode Arrays Enhance Electrophysiology Recordings

“…The astrocytes were clearly visible in between the smaller cell-bodied neurons, playing their essential role of neuronal support. [15,16] A serum-free media were used without any growth factors to prevent astrocytes from further proliferation. The cells showed a very high survival rate at DIV21 on the PDLand laminin-coated MEAs ( Figure S2e, Supporting Information).…”

“…[14] The presence of glial cells is nevertheless important for neuronal communication. [15,16] The use of serum-free media can be a simple way to prevent overgrowth of glial cells in vitro. [13] However, the growth of cells in vitro, being a rather dynamic process, can affect the performance of the microelectrodes due to the continuous deposition of proteins from the media and the extracellular matrix (ECM) of the cells resulting in the so-called biofouling of the microelectrodes within days.…”