Molecular Approaches for Manipulating Astrocytic Signaling In Vivo

• Main Authors: Alison Xiaoqiao Xie, Jeremy ePetravicz, Ken D Mccarthy
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Frontiers Media S.A. 2015-04-01
• Series: Frontiers in Cellular Neuroscience
• Subjects: astrocyte; in vivo; DREADD; GPCR signaling; IP3R2 KO
• Online Access: http://journal.frontiersin.org/Journal/10.3389/fncel.2015.00144/full

Astrocytes are the predominant glial type in the central nervous system and play important roles in assisting neuronal function and network activity. Astrocytes exhibit complex signaling systems that are essential for their normal function and the homeostasis of the neural network. Altered signaling in astrocytes is closely associated with neurological and psychiatric diseases, suggesting tremendous therapeutic potential of these cells. To further understand astrocyte function in health and disease, it is important to study astrocytic signaling in vivo. In this review, we will discuss the recent molecular tools that allows for selective manipulation of astrocytic signaling, including the tools that can be used to selectively activate and inactivate astrocyte signaling in vivo. Lastly, we would like to highlight a few tools in development that present strong potential for advancing our understanding of the role of astrocytes in physiology, behavior, and pathology.