Neuron-glia interactions as therapeutic targets in neurodegeneration

Accumulating evidence suggests that alterations of neuron-glia interactions are associated with development of neurodegenerative diseases referred to as taupathies. Astrocytes contribute to a variety of functions of neurons, including synapse formation and plasticity, energetic and redox metabolism, and synaptic homeostasis of neurotransmitters and ions. Microglia represent the immune system of the brain and therefore are critically involved in various injuries and diseases. Oligodendrocytes have a role in regulation of steroid synthesis which is important for neuroprotection against degeneration. Glia-mediated inflammatory response is involved in dramatic changes in activity of neuritic plaque-associated astrocytes and microglia, and the link between glial activation and neuronal damage or repair has been postulated. In addition, functional relationship between neurons, glial cells, and vascular cells within so-called neurovascular unit is dramatically compromised in Alzheimer's disease. Therefore, importance of alterations in synergistic interactions between the cells in pathogenesis of this neurodegenerative disorder has been suggested. Further understanding of molecular mechanisms of neuron-glia interactions in Alzheimer's disease would give us novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.