A new look at "filler cells" in the brain reveals their role in learning

Abstract

In vivo and in vitro studies reveal that astrocytes, classically considered supportive cells for neurons, regulate synaptic plasticity in the mouse hippocampus and are directly involved in information storage.

Astrocytes respond to active synapses and release transmitters that persistently enhance synaptic efficacy and thus play a direct role in synaptic plasticity and brain information storage.