Astrocyte / neuron synapse in the brain

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Astrocyte / neuron synapse in the brain

Astrocyte/neuron synapse in the brain. Artwork of a nerve cell (neuron, yellow) synapse in the brain with an associated regulatory astrocyte cell (red). The neuron passes its signal (arrows) from the top cell to the bottom one by releasing the neurotransmitter chemical glutamate (green balls). This binds to receptors on the target cell, creating a new nerve signal. The process is regulated by the actions of the astrocyte cell. This can take up excess glutamate (as at right), sequester it using a protein (purple rings, left), or produce a chemical (white balls) that reduces its production (upper right). It can also increase the signal by releasing its own glutamate, as at upper left

Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations

Media ID 6448825

© CLAUS LUNAU/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

Astrocyte Axon Central Cerebral Glutamate Grey Matter Message Modifying Nerve Cell Neural Neuron Neurone Neurones Neurons Neurotransmitter Physiological Physiology Relay Relaying Signal Signals Synapse Transmitting Vesicle Vesicles Brain Cells Nervous System Neurological Neurology

EDITORS COMMENTS
This artwork showcases the intricate connection between an astrocyte and a neuron in the brain. The vibrant colors bring to life the complex process of signal transmission within our central nervous system. At first glance, we see a yellow nerve cell, known as a neuron, passing its signal from top to bottom through arrows. This communication is made possible by the release of glutamate, represented by green balls, which bind to receptors on the target cell and initiate a new nerve signal. However, it is the regulatory astrocyte cell that steals our attention with its striking red hue. This guardian-like cell plays a crucial role in modulating this neuronal conversation. It can take up excess glutamate when needed or sequester it using specialized proteins depicted as purple rings on the left side of the image. Moreover, this remarkable astrocyte has another trick up its sleeve – it produces chemicals represented by white balls that reduce glutamate production altogether (shown at upper right). On occasion, it even amplifies signals by releasing its own glutamate (depicted at upper left), further enhancing neural communication. This artful representation not only highlights the beauty found within our brains but also serves as a reminder of how intricately balanced and regulated these processes are for optimal functioning. Through this visual masterpiece created by Science Photo Library, we gain insight into one aspect of neuroscience that continues to fascinate researchers worldwide.

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