Astrocytes and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Cellular Biology
• Neurobiology

Background:

• Astrocytes are key regulators of neuronal function, influencing synaptic plasticity and brain-wide circuit activity.
• Neurotrophins, particularly brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), are vital for neuronal survival and maturation.
• While BDNF's role in neurons is well-established, its function in astrocytes is increasingly recognized.

Approach:

• This review synthesizes current knowledge on astrocyte-BDNF interactions.
• It examines how astrocytes sense and respond to BDNF via TrkB receptors.
• The role of astrocytes in BDNF/proBDNF uptake and recycling at synapses is discussed.

Key Points:

• Astrocytes express TrkB receptors, enabling them to respond to extracellular BDNF.
• Astrocyte responses to BDNF vary by brain region, developmental stage, and receptor expression.
• Astrocytes contribute to synaptic plasticity by modulating BDNF availability.

Conclusions:

• Astrocytes play an active role in BDNF physiology.
• Deficits in astrocytic BDNF are implicated in neuropathologies.
• Targeting astrocytic BDNF pathways offers potential for clinical translation in neurological disorders.