[Exocytotic release of signaling molecules from astrocytes]

Abstract

Astrocyte secrete many kinds of bioactive substances including growth factors and cytokines. Recent accumulating evidences showed that astrocyte also release neurotransmitters and modulators such as glutamate, ATP and D-serine. At least, some part of these releases are mediated by exocytosis in SNARE- and Ca2+-dependent manners. These functions may play important roles in the regulation of neuronal and brain functions.