The signaling role for chloride in the bidirectional communication between neurons and astrocytes

Publication date: Available online 9 January 2018Source: Neuroscience LettersAuthor(s): Corinne S. Wilson, Alexander A. MonginAbstractIt is well known that the electrical signaling in neuronal networks is modulated by chloride (Cl−) fluxes via the inhibitory GABAA and glycine receptors. Here, we discuss the putative contribution of Cl− fluxes and intracellular Cl− to other forms of information transfer in the CNS, namely the bidirectional communication between neurons and astrocytes. The manuscript (i) summarizes the generic functions of Cl− in cellular physiology, (ii) recaps molecular identities and properties of Cl− transporters and channels in neurons and astrocytes, and (iii) analyzes emerging studies implicating Cl− in the modulation of neuroglial communication. The existing literature suggests that neurons can alter astrocytic Cl− levels in a number of ways; via (a) the release of neurotransmitters and activation of glial transporters that have intrinsic Cl− conductance, (b) the metabotropic receptor-driven changes in activity of the electroneutral cation-Cl− cotransporter NKCC1, and (c) the transient, activity-dependent changes in glial cell volume which open the volume-regulated Cl−/anion channel VRAC. Reciprocally, astrocytes are thought to alter neuronal [Cl−]i through either (a) VRAC-mediated release of the inhibitory gliotransmitters, GABA and taurine, which open neuronal GABAA and glycine receptor/Cl− channels, or (b) the gliotransmitter-...

Source: Neuroscience Letters - July 18, 2018 Category: Neuroscience Source Type: research