Abstract
Based on discoveries enabled by new technologies and analysis using novel computational tools, neuroscience can be re-conceived in terms of information exchange in dense networks of intercellular connections rather than in the context of individual populations, such as glia or neurons. Cross-talk between neurons and microglia or astrocytes has been addressed, however, the manner in which non-neuronal cells communicate and interact remains less well-understood. We review this intriguing crosstalk among CNS cells, focusing on astrocytes and microglia and how it contributes to brain development and neurodegenerative diseases. The goal of studying these intercellular communications is to promote our ability to combat incurable neurological disorders.
Highlights
Every organ possesses one cell type whose properties incarnate and define its function
Hematopoietic stem cell—microglia like cells (HSC-MLC) that can, after transfer to central nervous system (CNS), imitate microglia, have been found to be enriched in genes associated with neurological diseases such as Alzheimer Disease (AD) [7]
The main role of astrocytes in the brain is to protect from damage to the CNS and to repair the nervous tissue after the injury, so it is not surprising that astrocytes are involved in wide array of neurological disorders
Summary
Every organ possesses one cell type whose properties incarnate and define its function. Microglia and astrocytes respond to neuronal injury with programs that include proliferation, morphological alterations, mediator production, and engulfment of cells and subcellular elements. These changes represent the CNS tissue response to damage or degeneration. This review takes the approach of introducing briefly each cell type in relation to its interactions with neurons, followed by a series of “embryonic” illustrating how microglia and astrocytes can communicate. These interactions will be placed in the setting of varied CNS disorders. Today we can enjoy the observation of microglia in 3D at nanometer-resolution visualized by volumetric ultrastructural reconstruction using serial block face scanning electron microscopy (SBEM) [2]
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