Abstract
Astrocytes can release a variety of transmitters, including glutamate and ATP, in response to stimuli that induce increases in intracellular Ca(2+) levels. This release occurs via a regulated, exocytotic pathway. As evidence of this, astrocytes express protein components of the vesicular secretory apparatus, including synaptobrevin 2, syntaxin, and SNAP-23. Additionally, astrocytes possess vesicular organelles, the essential morphological elements required for regulated Ca(2+)-dependent transmitter release. The location of specific exocytotic sites on these cells, however, remains to be unequivocally determined.
Publication types
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Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
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Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
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Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
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Review
MeSH terms
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Animals
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Astrocytes / metabolism*
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Astrocytes / ultrastructure
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Calcium Signaling / physiology*
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Cell Communication / physiology*
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Central Nervous System / metabolism*
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Central Nervous System / ultrastructure
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Cytoplasmic Vesicles / metabolism*
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Cytoplasmic Vesicles / ultrastructure
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Exocytosis / physiology
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Glutamic Acid / metabolism
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Humans
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Membrane Proteins / metabolism
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Neurotransmitter Agents / metabolism*
Substances
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Membrane Proteins
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Neurotransmitter Agents
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Glutamic Acid