Glia-neuron interactions: roles in axonal pathfinding and synaptic physiology in an invertebrate model

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All nervous system functions in animal are controlled by networks of brain cells which communicate through specialized structures termed 'synapses'. Perturbation of synaptic transmission between neurons is the basis for all brain dysfunctions. Traditionally, it was presumed that the synaptic transmission occurred between a presynaptic neuron and its postsynaptic target involving a bipartite synapse. However, recent studies have indicated that the glial cells - which were previously thought to provide physical support to neurons only - play many important functional roles in the nervous system. For instance, in their absence not only do neurons fail to reach out to their exact targets but also that their synaptic transmission fails. The precise involvement of glia in these processes and the underlying mechanisms remain however largely unknown. Using a model system approach, this study will provide the direct evidence vis-à-vis the involvement of glial in nerve guidance towards its targets and also their precise role in synaptic physiology. We believe that these studies will provide direct insights into the mechanisms by which glia affect nervous system development and function under both normal various and pathological conditions.