Glia as Architects of Central Nervous System Formation and Function

摘要

Glia constitute roughly half of the cells of the central nervous system (CNS), but were long-considered static bystanders to its formation and function. Here we provide an overview of how the diverse and dynamic functions of glial cells orchestrate essentially all aspects of nervous system formation and function. Radial glia, astrocytes, oligodendrocyte progenitor cells, oligodendrocytes and microglia each influence nervous system development, from neuronal birth, migration, axon specification and growth, through to circuit assembly and synaptogenesis. As neural circuits mature, distinct glia fulfil key roles in synaptic communication, plasticity, homeostasis, and network­level activity, through dynamic monitoring and alteration of CNS structure and function. Continued elucidation of glial cell biology, and the dynamic interactions of neurons and glia, will enrich our understanding of nervous system formation, health and function.