title: Neuron-astrocyte communication and synaptic plasticity.
abstract: By forming close contacts with synapses, astrocytes secrete neuroactive substances and remove neurotransmitters, thus influencing the processing of information by the nervous system. Here, we review recent work on astrocytes and their roles in regulating neuronal function and synaptic plasticity. Astrocytes are organized as networks and communicate with each other, thereby affecting larger neural circuits. They also provide a link between neurons and the vasculature, potentially changing the cerebral microcirculation. Recent work has provided insights into the relative contributions of specific astrocytic cues and transporters to synaptic transmission, plasticity, and animal behavior.
authors.affiliation: Department of Molecular Neurobiology, Max-Planck Institute of Neurobiology, Am Klopferspitz 18, 82152 Martinsried, Germany.
authors.forename: Sónia
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Paixão
authors.forename: Rüdiger
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Klein
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D001253:Astrocytes / Q000502:physiology; D001522:Behavior, Animal / Q000502:physiology; D001921:Brain / Q000166:cytology / Q000502:physiology; D002450:Cell Communication / Q000502:physiology*; D009473:Neuronal Plasticity / Q000502:physiology*; D009474:Neurons / Q000502:physiology*; D018377:Neurotransmitter Agents / Q000378:metabolism; D013569:Synapses / Q000502:physiology*; D009435:Synaptic Transmission / Q000502:physiology
chemical_list: D018377:Neurotransmitter Agents