Astrocytes and Developmental Plasticity in Fragile X. (11th July 2012)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Cheng, Connie; Sourial, Mary; Doering, Laurie C.
• Other Names: Wang Hansen Academic Editor.
• Is Part Of: Neural plasticity. Volume 2012(2012)
• Publication Date: 2012-07-11
• Subjects: Neuroplasticity -- Periodicals; 612.82
• DOI: 10.1155/2012/197491
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2090-5904

Abstract

Abstract : A growing body of research indicates a pivotal role for astrocytes at the developing synapse. In particular, astrocytes are dynamically involved in governing synapse structure, function, and plasticity. In the postnatal brain, their appearance at synapses coincides with periods of developmental plasticity when neural circuits are refined and established. Alterations in the partnership between astrocytes and neurons have now emerged as important mechanisms that underlie neuropathology. With overall synaptic function standing as a prominent link to the expression of the disease phenotype in a number of neurodevelopmental disorders and knowing that astrocytes influence synapse development and function, this paper highlights the current knowledge of astrocyte biology with a focus on their involvement in fragile X syndrome.