Crosstalk Between Astrocytes and Inhibitory Neurons During Maturation: Emerging Mechanisms and Functional...

Astrocytes, once regarded merely as passive support cells in the brain, have recently emerged as active partners to neurons in sensory processing, learning and memory. By promoting the development, maturation and refinement of neuronal synapses, astrocytes play a central role in shaping brain circuitry. Within these circuits, inhibitory neurons comprise approximately 20% of brain cells, with variation across regions and developmental stages. The fundamental importance of inhibition is underscored by its evolutionary conservation, being present even in primitive nervous systems. Notably, astrocyte development coincides temporally with a peak in synaptogenesis and with the maturation of inhibitory neurons, suggesting potential interplay between these processes. Historically, research has primarily focused on astrocyte interactions with excitatory neurons; however, there is growing recognition of the likely significance of astrocyte-inhibitory neuron crosstalk, particularly during critical developmental periods. Here we review current knowledge on the development of astrocytes and inhibitory neurons, highlight emerging evidence for their interactions and propose hypotheses to guide future research.