Contrary to what was thought, neurons are not the only ones responsible for our memory. A study by the Cajal Institute, belonging to the Higher Council for Scientific Research (CSIC) has found that astrocytes, star-shaped cells of the nervous system, also have a lot to do with all processes related to memory and learning. The finding could be used to treat neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's.
Specifically, astrocytes control and regulate communication between neurons. The process is done through a whole teamwork that leads to "long-term empowerment" (LTP), a process that is closely related to the ability to remember and learn. First, neurons release a neurotransmitter called acetylcholine, which causes the calcium concentration in astrocytes to increase. As a consequence, another neurotransmitter called glutamate is released in them, which detects neighboring neurons and in which LTP is produced.
The study has been published in the journal PLoS Biology and its authors think that astrocytes could serve as a possible therapeutic target in the treatment of conditions related to memory loss such as Alzheimer's disease. Much research remains to be done, but this work is the basis for future studies with therapeutic applications.
