Scientists have known for decades that the nervous system comprises two families of cells: glial cells and neurons. Neurons process and transmit information through their networks via connections called synapses, while glial cells nestle between neurons providing structural and physiological support.
A team that includes researchers from the IRCCS Santa Lucia, and the University of Rome Tor Vergata has found a group of astrocytes, which are a subset of glial cells, that plays a role in synaptic transmission and is involved in information processing1. These cells have characteristics that were never before observed in the astrocyte family, placing them halfway between glial and neuronal cells. Specifically, researchers found that they can release the neurotransmitter glutamate at a speed that would allow a fast modulation of synaptic transmission.
Cristina Da Rold 