The term 'tripartite synapse'refers to a concept in synaptic physiology based on the
demonstration of the existence of bidirectional communication between astrocytes and …

Astrocytes participate in all essential CNS functions, including blood flow regulation, energy
metabolism, ion and water homeostasis, immune defence, neurotransmission, and adult …

Accumulating evidence indicates that astrocytes are actively involved in brain function by
regulating synaptic activity and plasticity. Different gliotransmitters, such as glutamate, ATP …

This review is focused on purinergic neurotransmission, ie, ATP released from nerves as a
transmitter or cotransmitter to act as an extracellular signaling molecule on both pre-and …

Synaptic plasticity is the capacity of a preexisting connection between two neurons to
change in strength as a function of neural activity. Because synaptic plasticity is the major …

Activity-dependent release of ATP from synapses, axons and glia activates purinergic
membrane receptors that modulate intracellular calcium and cyclic AMP. This enables glia to …

Astrocytes comprise approximately half of the volume of the adult mammalian brain and are
the primary neuronal structural and trophic supportive elements. Astrocytes are organized …

Numerous evidence demonstrates that astrocytes, a type of glial cell, are integral functional
elements of the synapses, responding to neuronal activity and regulating synaptic …

Background Glial cells of the central nervous system directly influence neuronal activity by
releasing neuroactive small molecules, including glutamate. Long-lasting cocaine-induced …

Astroglial cells, due to their passive electrical properties, were long considered subservient
to neurons and to merely provide the framework and metabolic support of the brain …