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White matter lactate--does it matter?
1The Brain and Muscle Energy Group, Department of Anatomy, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, PB1105 Blindern, N-0317 Oslo, Norway; Janelia Farm Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA, USA.
Neuroscience
|October 16, 2013
Summary
Oligodendrocytes, the cells that create myelin in the brain, use lactate as an energy source during development and to nourish axons in mature white matter. Myelin acts as more than an insulator, providing essential substrates and signals for brain function.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cell Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- White matter, comprising about half of the human brain, is crucial for rapid nerve signal transmission.
- Axons are covered in myelin, a lipid-rich sheath synthesized by oligodendrocytes.
- Oligodendrocyte function and survival depend on adequate energy supply, with energy deprivation being detrimental.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of lactate in white matter energy metabolism and signaling.
- To explore lactate as an alternative energy substrate for oligodendrocytes during myelination.
- To investigate the function of mature oligodendrocytes in releasing lactate for axonal support and signaling.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on white matter metabolism.
- Analysis of oligodendrocyte energy requirements during myelination.
- Examination of lactate transport mechanisms in the brain.
Main Results:
- Oligodendrocytes may utilize lactate as an energy source and material for myelin synthesis during development.
- Mature oligodendrocytes release lactate through the myelin sheath to nourish axons.
- Lactate functions as a volume transmitter, carrying signals within the white matter.
Conclusions:
- Myelin's role extends beyond insulation; it facilitates substrate and signal provision to axons via lactate.
- Lactate fluxes are significant for overall white matter function and brain health.
- Understanding lactate's role is key to comprehending white matter's dynamic contributions to neural communication.
