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Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 21, 2026

Analyzing the Size, Shape, and Directionality of Networks of Coupled Astrocytes

Analyzing the Size, Shape, and Directionality of Networks of Coupled Astrocytes

Published on: October 4, 2018

Astrocyte-neuron communication: functional consequences.

Sarrah Ben Achour¹, Olivier Pascual

¹Ecole Normale Supérieure, Institut de Biologie de l'ENS, IBENS, 75005 Paris, France.

Neurochemical Research

|June 7, 2012

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Astrocytes modulate brain function through gliotransmission, releasing transmitters like ATP and glutamate near synapses. This review explores their role in sleep, breathing, and memory, highlighting diverse signaling pathways.

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Published on: October 14, 2012

Area of Science:

Neuroscience
Cellular Biology

Background:

Astrocyte-neuron communication is a proposed mechanism in synaptic transmission.
Gliotransmission, the release of transmitters by astrocytes (e.g., ATP, glutamate, D-serine, GABA) near synapses, is an emerging concept.
The precise cellular mechanisms of gliotransmission require further elucidation.

Purpose of the Study:

To review studies investigating the functional role of astrocytes in brain functions.
To highlight similarities and discrepancies in astrocyte signaling pathways across different brain functions.
To synthesize current understanding of gliotransmission's impact on cognition and physiology.

Main Methods:

Literature review of principal studies on astrocyte involvement in brain functions.
Analysis of research on gliotransmission and its functional implications.
Comparative analysis of signaling pathways in various brain regions.

Main Results:

Accumulating evidence supports astrocyte modulation of synaptic transmission.
Astrocytes release key neurotransmitters, influencing neural network activity.
Diverse brain functions including sleep, breathing, perception, and memory are potentially regulated by astrocytes.

Conclusions:

Astrocytes play a significant role in modulating brain functions through gliotransmission.
Understanding astrocyte signaling pathways is crucial for comprehending brain function.
Further research is needed to fully delineate the mechanisms and functional significance of gliotransmission.