Astrocytes and developmental plasticity in fragile X

Neural Plast. 2012:2012:197491. doi: 10.1155/2012/197491. Epub 2012 Jul 11.

Abstract

A growing body of research indicates a pivotal role for astrocytes at the developing synapse. In particular, astrocytes are dynamically involved in governing synapse structure, function, and plasticity. In the postnatal brain, their appearance at synapses coincides with periods of developmental plasticity when neural circuits are refined and established. Alterations in the partnership between astrocytes and neurons have now emerged as important mechanisms that underlie neuropathology. With overall synaptic function standing as a prominent link to the expression of the disease phenotype in a number of neurodevelopmental disorders and knowing that astrocytes influence synapse development and function, this paper highlights the current knowledge of astrocyte biology with a focus on their involvement in fragile X syndrome.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Astrocytes / pathology
  • Astrocytes / physiology*
  • Fragile X Mental Retardation Protein / genetics
  • Fragile X Syndrome / pathology
  • Fragile X Syndrome / physiopathology*
  • Humans
  • Nervous System Diseases / pathology
  • Neuronal Plasticity / physiology*
  • Neurons / pathology
  • Synapses / physiology
  • Synaptic Transmission / physiology

Substances

  • Fragile X Mental Retardation Protein