The Tripartite Synapse: Glia in Synaptic Transmission

For decades glial cells were considered passive supporters of nerve function, lacking the fundamental characteristics of excitability and signal integration. However, as a result of recent electrophysiological and imaging studies, it is now clear that glial cells are central to the mechanisms of information processing in the brain. They are involved in the continuous, dynamic and integrated exchange of rapid signals with nerve cells and the regulation of synaptic transmission. This book will present the research evidence underpinning this major shift in our understanding of the role of these cells.