Inducible ablation of astrocytes shows that these cells are required for neuronal survival in the adult brain

Cui, W., Allen, N., Skynner, M., Gusterson, B. and Clark, A. (2001) Inducible ablation of astrocytes shows that these cells are required for neuronal survival in the adult brain. Glia, 34(4), pp. 272-282. (doi: 10.1002/glia.1061)

Full text not currently available from Enlighten.

Abstract

To study the function of astrocytes in the adult brain, we have targeted the expression of E. coli nitroreductase (NTR) to the astrocytes of transgenic mice under the control of the GFAP promoter. The astrocytes expressing NTR were selectively ablated after administration of the prodrug CB1954, resulting in motor discoordination. Histological examination showed that the region most affected in the brain was the cerebellum, in which the Bergmann glia were eliminated and the granular neurons had degenerated. Specific effects were also noted on the dendrites of the Purkinje cells, and the junction between these neurons and granular layer was disrupted. Astrocyte ablation was associated with a dramatic decrease in the expression of glutamate transporters, which may account for the degeneration of granular neurons since the excitotoxic effects of glutamate result in a similar phenotype. These results provide the first evidence that astrocytes are important for the survival of neurons in the adult brain in vivo.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Gusterson, Professor Barry and Clark, Dr Andrew
Authors: Cui, W., Allen, N., Skynner, M., Gusterson, B., and Clark, A.
College/School:College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Cancer Sciences
Journal Name:Glia
ISSN:0894-1491

University Staff: Request a correction | Enlighten Editors: Update this record