Astrocytic‐neuronal crosstalk gets jammed: Alternative perspectives on the onset of neuropsychiatric disorders. (27th July 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Roman, Celia; Egert, Luisa; Di Benedetto, Barbara
• Other Names: Majewska Ania guestEditor.; Verkhratsky Alexej guestEditor.; Hughes Ethan guestEditor.
• Is Part Of: European journal of neuroscience. Volume 54:Number 5(2021)
• Page Start: 5717
• Page End: 5729
• Publication Date: 2020-07-27
• Subjects: astrocytes -- neuropsychiatric disorders -- pruning -- synapse remodelling; Nervous system -- Periodicals; 612.8
• DOI: 10.1111/ejn.14900
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0953-816X

Abstract

Abstract: Investigating interactions of glia cells and synapses during development and in adulthood is the focus of several research programmes which aim at understanding the neurobiology of brain physiological and pathological processes. Both glia‐specific released and membrane‐bound proteins play essential roles in the development, maintenance and functionality of synaptic connections. Alterations in synaptic contacts in specific brain areas are hallmarks of several brain diseases, such as major depressive disorder, autism spectrum disorder and schizophrenia. Thus, a deeper knowledge about putative astrocyte dysfunctions which might affect the synaptic compartment is warranted to improve treatment options. Here, we present the latest advances about the role of glia cells in orchestrating the arrangement of synapses and neuronal networks in physiological and pathological states. We specifically focus on the role of astrocytes in the phagocytosis of neuronal synapses as a novel mechanism which drives the refinement of neuronal circuits and might be affected in pathological conditions. Finally, we propose this astrocyte‐dependent mechanism as a putative alternative target of pharmacological interventions for the treatment of brain disorders. Abstract : A balanced astrocyte‐neuronal bidirectional communication is essential for the proper development of neuronal synaptic networks. Both astrocyte‐specific released factors and membrane‐bound proteins play key roles in the physiological and pathological formation and function(s) of synaptic connections. Astrocyte‐mediated phagocytosis of neuronal synapses may represent the novel mechanism which drives the refinement of neuronal circuits that becomes affected in pathological conditions.