Modulation of Central Synapses by Astrocyte-Released ATP and Postsynaptic P2X Receptors

Neural Plast. 2017:2017:9454275. doi: 10.1155/2017/9454275. Epub 2017 Aug 6.

Abstract

Communication between neuronal and glial cells is important for neural plasticity. P2X receptors are ATP-gated cation channels widely expressed in the brain where they mediate action of extracellular ATP released by neurons and/or glia. Recent data show that postsynaptic P2X receptors underlie slow neuromodulatory actions rather than fast synaptic transmission at brain synapses. Here, we review these findings with a particular focus on the release of ATP by astrocytes and the diversity of postsynaptic P2X-mediated modulation of synaptic strength and plasticity in the CNS.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adenosine Triphosphate / metabolism*
  • Animals
  • Astrocytes / metabolism*
  • Neuronal Plasticity / physiology*
  • Receptors, Purinergic P2X / metabolism*
  • Synapses / metabolism*
  • Synaptic Transmission / physiology

Substances

  • Receptors, Purinergic P2X
  • Adenosine Triphosphate