Diversity of astroglial functions alludes to subcellular specialisation

Rusakov, Dimitri A.; Bard, Lucie; Stewart, Michael G. and Henneberger, Christian (2014). Diversity of astroglial functions alludes to subcellular specialisation. Trends in Neuroscience, 1043

URL:	http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.tins.2014.02.008
Google Scholar:	Look up in Google Scholar

Abstract

Rapid signal exchange between astroglia and neurons has emerged as an essential element of neural circuits of the brain. However, the increasing variety of mechanisms contributing to this signalling appears to be facing a conceptual stalemate. The communication medium of astroglia involves intracellular [Ca²⁺] waves, which until recently have been associated with slow, global [Ca²⁺] rises. How such a uniform trigger could handle fast and iverse molecular messages remains unexplained. Recent studies have, however, revealed a variety of apparently independent Ca²⁺ activities within individual astrocytic compartments, also indicating the prevalence of subcellular segregation for some signalling mechanisms. These signs of intracellular compartmentalisation might provide the key to the multitude of adaptive roles played by astroglia.

Item Type:

Journal Item

2014 Elsevier

Project Funding Details:

Funded Project Name	Project ID	Funding Body
High resolution 3-D reconstructions from brain tissue via Field Emission scanning electron microscopy in back scattered electron (BSE) imaging mode	BB/I020330/1	BBSRC (Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council)
The Role of Multi-innervated Dendritic Spines in Memory Formation in Ageing	BB/J021687/1	BBSRC (Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council)

Academic Unit/School:

Faculty of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) > Life, Health and Chemical Sciences
Faculty of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM)

Related URLs: