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Updated: May 24, 2026
09:09
Electrophysiological Investigations of Retinogeniculate and Corticogeniculate Synapse Function
Published on: August 7, 2019
Gliotransmission and the tripartite synapse
Mirko Santello1, Corrado Calì, Paola Bezzi
1DBCM, Department of Physiology, University of Bern, Bühlplatz 5, 3012 Bern, Switzerland.
Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology
|February 22, 2012
Summary
Astrocytes, once seen as mere support cells, are now recognized as active brain participants. They communicate bidirectionally with neurons, influencing synaptic transmission and plasticity.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cell Biology
- Glial Cell Biology
Background:
- The traditional view of astrocytes as passive support cells has evolved.
- Emerging evidence highlights astrocytes as active participants in brain function.
- Bidirectional communication between astrocytes and neurons at the synaptic level is a key focus.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the active role of astrocytes in synaptic communication.
- To investigate the mechanisms of gliotransmitter release from astrocytes.
- To understand how astrocytes modulate synaptic transmission and plasticity.
Main Methods:
- Focus on the expression of G-protein-coupled receptors in astrocyte perisynaptic processes.
- Analysis of calcium signaling pathways within astrocytes.
- Investigation of both calcium-dependent and calcium-independent gliotransmitter release mechanisms.
Main Results:
- Astrocytes possess receptors that detect synaptic neurotransmitters.
- Synaptic activity triggers calcium increases in astrocytes.
- Astrocytes release gliotransmitters, modulating synaptic elements.
- Both calcium-dependent and independent release mechanisms are suggested, with exocytosis being a focus.
Conclusions:
- Astrocytes actively integrate and process synaptic information.
- Gliotransmitter release, particularly calcium-dependent exocytosis, plays a crucial role in modulating synaptic transmission and plasticity.
- Further research is needed to clarify the coexistence and conditions for different release mechanisms.
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