Cooperative Astrocyte and Dendritic Spine Dynamics at Hippocampal Excitatory Synapses

• DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1302-06.2006
• Publication Date: 2006-08-31T00:39:46Z
• Authors: Michael Haber; Lei Zhou; Keith K. Murai
• Keywords: Dendritic filopodia

Accumulating evidence is redefining the importance of neuron–glial interactions at synapses in CNS. Astrocytes form “tripartite” complexes with presynaptic and postsynaptic structures regulate synaptic transmission plasticity. Despite our understanding relationships physiological contexts, little known about structural interplay between astrocytes synapses. In past, this has been difficult to explore because studies have hampered by lack a system that preserves complex observed brain. Here we present can be used characterize intricate relationship astrocytic processes situ using organotypic hippocampal slices, preparation retains three-dimensional architecture astrocyte–synapse interactions. Using time-lapse confocal imaging, demonstrate rapidly extend retract fine engage disengage from motile dendritic spines. Surprisingly, motility is, on average, higher than its spine counterparts likely relies actin-based cytoskeletal reorganization. Changes are typically coordinated changes spines, astrocyte–spine stabilized larger Our results suggest dynamic help control degree communication