A new role for Glia: generation of neurons!

Article Abstract:

Results of several studies have made it possible to determine at least some multipotent neural stem cells. Enriched neural stem cells can be obtained by isolating ependymal cells or SVZ astrocytes. A critical criteria for stem cell identification in the hemopoietic systems is the ability of the transplanted cells to reconstitute the entire tissue. The identification of neural stem cells promises to promote a new era in studies concerning the workings of neural stem cells.

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Glia-Derived D-Serine controls NMDA receptor activity and synaptic memory

Article Abstract:

The physiological impact of the glial environment on NMDA receptor-dependent activity and plasticity was studied as D-Serine is released exclusively by astrocytes. The degree of astrocytic coverage of neurons governs the level of glycine site occupancy on the NMDA receptor, thereby affecting their availability for activation and thus the activity dependence of long-term synaptic changes.

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Thrombospondins are astrocyte-secreted proteins that promote CNS synaptogenesis

Article Abstract:

Immature but not mature astrocytes express thrombospondins (TSPs) -1 and -2 are reported and these TSPs promote CNS synaptogenesis in vitro and in vivo. TSPs are identified as CNS synaptogenic proteins that provide evidence that astrocytes are important contributors to synaptogenesis within the developing CNS.

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