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The Schwann Cell as an Active Synaptic Partner
Author(s) -
Hyung Sujin,
Jung Kyuhwan,
Cho SungRae,
Jeon Noo Li
Publication year - 2018
Publication title -
chemphyschem
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.016
H-Index - 140
eISSN - 1439-7641
pISSN - 1439-4235
DOI - 10.1002/cphc.201701299
Subject(s) - neuroscience , synapse , nervous system , neuron , schwann cell , neuromuscular junction , biology , intracellular , peripheral nervous system , neurotransmission , microbiology and biotechnology , chemistry , central nervous system , receptor , biochemistry
The schwann cells of the peripheral nervous system are indispensable for the formation, maintenance, and modulation of synapses over the life cycle. They not only recognize neuron‐glia signaling molecules, but also secrete gliotransmitters. Through these processes, they regulate neuronal excitability and thus the release of neurotransmitters from the nerve terminal at the neuromuscular junction. Gliotransmitters strongly affect nerve communication, and their secretion is mainly triggered by synchronized Ca 2+ signaling, implicating Ca 2+ waves in synapse function. Reciprocally, neurotransmitters released during synaptic activity can evoke increases in intracellular Ca 2+ levels. A reconsideration of the interplay between the two main types of cells in the nervous system is due, as the concept of nervous system activity comprising only neuron‐neuron and neuron‐muscle action has become untenable. A more precise understanding of the roles of schwann cells in nerve‐muscle signaling is required.