The role of astrocyte-neuron communication in network function and behavior.

• Applicant: Dr. Katharina Merten
• Subject Area: Cognitive, Systems and Behavioural Neurobiology
• Term: from 2014 to 2017
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 253378209

Traditionally, information processing and behavior are considered to emerge solely from neuronal excitation. Astrocytes, the largest glial cell population in the brain, are thought to play merely passive supportive roles in this regard. Recent studies in cell culture, brain slices, and anesthetized animals have shown that astrocytes are excitable cells that communicate bi-directionally with neurons. However, the relevance of astrocyte-neuron communication to information processing in behaving animals has remained elusive. I propose to investigate functional astrocyte-neuron circuits in mice during motor activity and associative learning. I will use fluorescence imaging and electrophysiology along with molecular and genetic techniques to provide detailed mechanistic insights into molecular pathways involved in astrocyte-mediated modulation of neuronal activity and behavior. Three specific aims will be pursued: (1) determine spatial and temporal patterns of astrocyte activity in motor and prefrontal cortex; (2) determine astrocyte activity involved in neuromodulation; (3) determine the molecular pathways underlying in astrocyte-mediated neuromodulation. Should astrocytes indeed contribute to information processing in behaving animals, the proposed project has the potential to significantly change our view of how the brain operates. Moreover, given the involvement of astrocytes in numerous neurological diseases, elucidating behavior-relevant astrocyte-neuron communication mechanisms may inform development of novel treatment strategies.

• DFG Programme: Research Fellowships
• International Connection: USA
• Host: Professor Dr. Axel Nimmerjahn