Astrocytic adenosine: from synapses to psychiatric disorders.

ABSTRACT: Although it is considered to be the most complex organ in the body, the brain can be broadly classified into two major types of cells, neuronal cells and glial cells. Glia is a general term that encompasses multiple types of non-neuronal cells that function to maintain homeostasis, form myelin, and provide support and protection for neurons. Astrocytes, a major class of glial cell, have historically been viewed as passive support cells, but recently it has been discovered that astrocytes participate in signalling activities both with the vasculature and with neurons at the synapse. These cells have been shown to release D-serine, TNF-α, glutamate, atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) and ATP among other signalling molecules. ATP and its metabolites are well established as important signalling

SUBMITTER: Hines DJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4173280 | biostudies-literature | 2014 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature