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Glia-derived D-serine controls NMDA receptor activity and synaptic memory
Aude Panatier1, Dionysia T Theodosis, Jean-Pierre Mothet
1Inserm, U378, Bordeaux, F-33077, France.
Cell
|May 23, 2006
Summary
Astrocytes modulate N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor activity by controlling D-serine levels. Neuron-astrocyte interactions regulate synaptic plasticity and brain signaling.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cell Biology
- Synaptic Plasticity
Background:
- NMDA receptors are crucial for central nervous system excitatory transmission and synaptic plasticity.
- NMDA receptor activation necessitates glutamate and a co-agonist, such as D-serine, at the glycine site.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the physiological influence of the glial environment on NMDA receptor-dependent activity and plasticity.
- To determine the role of astrocytes in regulating NMDA receptor function.
Main Methods:
- Studied the supraoptic nucleus, utilizing changes in astrocytic ensheathing of neurons during lactation.
- Investigated NMDA receptor co-agonist dynamics in relation to astrocytic coverage.
Main Results:
- Provided direct evidence that D-serine, not glycine, is the endogenous co-agonist for NMDA receptors in the supraoptic nucleus.
- Demonstrated that the extent of astrocytic coverage of neurons dictates glycine site occupancy on NMDA receptors.
Conclusions:
- Astrocytic coverage directly impacts NMDA receptor availability and activation.
- Astrocyte contributions to synaptic metaplasticity highlight their role as dynamic partners in brain signaling.
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