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Updated: May 29, 2026
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Imaging Intracellular Ca2+ Signals in Striatal Astrocytes from Adult Mice Using Genetically-encoded Calcium Indicators
Published on: November 19, 2014
Calcium signalling in astroglia
Alexei Verkhratsky1, José J Rodríguez, Vladimir Parpura
1The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK. alex.verkhratsky@manchester.ac.uk
Molecular and Cellular Endocrinology
|September 28, 2011
Summary
Astroglial calcium excitability, driven by intracellular and plasma membrane ion fluxes, controls crucial cell functions. This process significantly impacts neuronal signaling through gliotransmission.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cell Biology
- Astrocyte Biology
Background:
- Astroglia exhibit calcium (Ca2+) excitability, a phenomenon crucial for cellular function.
- This excitability involves intricate Ca2+ movements across intracellular compartments and the plasma membrane.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the molecular mechanisms governing astroglial Ca2+ excitability.
- To understand the role of Ca2+ dynamics in astrocyte function and neuronal communication.
Main Methods:
- The study reviews protein families regulating Ca2+ in plasma membranes, cytosol, endoplasmic reticulum (ER), and mitochondria.
- It examines Ca2+ entry via ionotropic receptors and store-operated channels.
- Analysis includes the function of Ca2+ ATP-ase, sodium-calcium exchanger, and ER inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors.
Main Results:
- Astroglial Ca2+ excitability is modulated by ER and mitochondrial Ca2+ handling.
- Mitochondria influence cytosolic Ca2+ levels through uptake and release mechanisms.
- Plasmalemmal proteins like Ca2+ ATP-ase and sodium-calcium exchanger regulate Ca2+ extrusion and influx.
Conclusions:
- Astroglial Ca2+ excitability is a complex process involving multiple cellular compartments and protein families.
- This Ca2+ excitability is a key determinant of gliotransmission, influencing neuronal signaling.
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