Astrocytes connect specific brain regions through plastic gap junctional networks.

ABSTRACT: Traditionally, neuronal axons have been considered the primary mediators of functional connectivity among brain regions. However, the role of astrocyte-mediated communication has been largely underappreciated. While astrocytes communicate with one another through gap junctions, the extent and specificity of this communication remain poorly understood. Astrocyte gap junctions are necessary for memory formation^1,2, synaptic plasticity^3-5, coordination of neuronal signaling⁶, and closing the visual and motor critical periods^7,8. These findings indicate that this form of communication is essential for proper central nervous system development and function. Despite their significance, studying astrocyte gap junctional networks has been challenging. Cu

SUBMITTER: Cooper ML 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12330634 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature