NeuroGLIA Consortium: neuron-astroglia in brain function and dysfunction

Our research

Astroglial cells, the numerically predominant cell type in the mammalian brain, have long been considered a sort of glue between neurons, merely providing structural and metabolic support to the neuronal network. Results obtained over the last decade, lead to a revision of this view and to a new understanding on how these cells work hand in hand with neurons to make the brain functioning. As active neuronal partners, astroglia sense and integrate synaptic signals and by releasing gliotransmitters modulate the excitability of neurons and the efficacy of synaptic transmission, and promote neuronal synchrony. By regulating the microvascular tone, astroglia also play a central role in the control of the neuronal activity-dependent increase in cerebral blood flow, i.e., a fundamental phenomenon that aims at satisfying the energy requirements necessary to sustain neuronal activity.

Leading European groups in the glial cell research field joined their efforts in a cooperative project, termed NeuroGLIA, that using a complex multidisciplinary approach has the overall aim to understand better the role of astroglia, in both the normal brain and the diseased brain. It can be reasonably expected that, if these cells play important roles in normal brain function, their dysfunction may, indeed, have pathological consequences. NeuroGLIA will thus investigate how a dysfunction of astroglia and, more specifically, of the reciprocal signalling between these cells and neurons, contributes to the pathogenesis of brain disorders, focussing on epilepsy. Epilepsies affect about 3% of the population worldwide and are among the most common and socially onerous brain diseases. Approximately 30% of the patients suffering from a genetic or acquired form of epilepsy are not cured by the currently available drugs and develop a severe disease that yields neurological, relational and social complications. In diverse animal models of epilepsy, astroglial activity will be analyzed with respect to initiation, maintenance and cessation of epileptiform activity, also in relation to blood flow changes and activation of inflammatory pathways.

NeuroGLIA is thus in the privileged position to unravel fundamental mechanisms of neuron-astroglia signalling in health and disease, opening new perspectives for specific therapeutic strategies.

See also our layman's introduction »