Somatostatin interneurons inhibit excitatory transmission mediated by astrocytic GABA and presynaptic GABA and adenosine A receptors in the hippocampus.

GABAergic network activity has been established to be involved in numerous physiological processes and pathological conditions. Extensive studies have corroborated that GABAergic network activity regulates excitatory synaptic networks by activating presynaptic GABA receptors (GABA Rs). It is well documented that astrocytes express GABA Rs and respond to GABAergic network activity.

Chemogenetic manipulation of astrocytic activity: Is it possible to reveal the roles of astrocytes?

Astrocytes are the major glial cells in the central nervous system, but unlike neurons, they do not produce action potentials. For many years, astrocytes were considered supporting cells in the central nervous system (CNS). Technological advances over the last two decades are changing the face of glial research.