Overview

• Astrocytes, once thought to play only a supportive role, are now shown to actively regulate neuronal activity and synaptic networks in real time.
• Research from OHSU demonstrates that astrocytes use GPCR signaling to selectively respond to neurotransmitters, dynamically filtering and modulating neuronal inputs.
• A complementary study from WashU reveals that norepinephrine reshapes brain connectivity by signaling through astrocytes, which release secondary chemical messengers to alter synaptic activity.
• Findings from fruit fly and rodent models confirm these mechanisms are evolutionarily conserved, underscoring their fundamental role in brain function.
• These discoveries position astrocytes as promising therapeutic targets for treating neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric disorders, including attention and mood regulation.