Integration of NG2-glia (synantocytes) into the neuroglial network.
NG2-glia are a distinct class of CNS glial cells that are generally classed as oligodendrocyte progenitor cells. However, in the adult CNS a large fraction of NG2 cells does not appear to divide or generate oligodendrocytes. The functions of these adult NG2-glia, which we have termed synantocytes, are unknown. NG2-glia (synantocytes) form interactive domains with astrocytes and neurons. Within their domains, NG2-glia and astrocytes contact the same neurons, form multiple heterologous contacts with each other, and contact pericytes which regulate cerebral blood flow. NG2-glia receive presynaptic input from neurons and respond to neurotransmitters released at synapses. In addition, NG2-glia are intimately associated with astroglia and respond to astroglial signals, a hitherto neglected aspect of NG2-glial cell physiology. The non-overlapping domain organisation of astrocytes is believed to be important in isolating and integrating activity at the synapses and blood vessels within their domains. The domains of NG2-glia overlap with astrocytes, suggesting they could play a role in integrating non-overlapping astrocyte domains.
Wigley
Rebekah
R
Institute for Biomedical and Biomolecular Sciences, School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Portsmouth, UK.
Butt
Arthur M
AM
D000941:Antigens / Q000378:metabolism; D001253:Astrocytes / Q000166:cytology / Q000502:physiology; D001812:Blood-Brain Barrier / Q000502:physiology; D002450:Cell Communication / Q000502:physiology*; D002490:Central Nervous System / Q000166:cytology / Q000502:physiology*; D009415:Nerve Net / Q000166:cytology / Q000502:physiology*; D009457:Neuroglia / Q000166:cytology / Q000502:physiology*; D009474:Neurons / Q000166:cytology / Q000502:physiology; D011509:Proteoglycans / Q000378:metabolism; D009435:Synaptic Transmission / Q000502:physiology; D000099216:Chondroitin Sulfate Proteoglycan 4
D000941:Antigens; D011509:Proteoglycans; D000099216:Chondroitin Sulfate Proteoglycan 4