Neuroenergetics: calling upon astrocytes to satisfy hungry neurons.
Classical neuroenergetics states that glucose is the exclusive energy substrate of brain cells and its full oxidation provides all the necessary energy to support brain function. Recent data have revealed a more intricate picture in which astrocytes play a key role in supplying lactate as an additional energy substrate in register with glutamatergic activity.
Pellerin
Luc
L
Institut de Physiologie, Université de Lausanne, Switzerland. Luc.Pellerin@iphysiol.unil.ch
Magistretti
Pierre J
PJ
D000818:Animals; D001253:Astrocytes / Q000378:metabolism*; D004734:Energy Metabolism / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans; D019636:Neurodegenerative Diseases / Q000378:metabolism*; D009474:Neurons / Q000378:metabolism*