Microscope Image Showing Astrocyte Diversity across the Mouse Brain (IMAGE)

McGill University Health Centre

Microscope Image Showing Astrocyte Diversity across the Mouse Brain

Caption

Astrocytes are brain cells that interact intimately with neurons and their circuits to maintain proper conditions for nervous system function. Neurons release a protein called Sonic hedgehog (Shh) to determine the molecular and physiological properties of astrocytes throughout the brain. In the image, the Shh signaling pathway has been activated in a subset of astrocytes (red). These cells produce high levels of Kir4.1 (green), a potassium channel needed to maintain proper potassium levels and neuron activity.

Credit

Todd Farmer, McGill University Health Centre

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Credit Todd Farmer, McGill University Health Centre

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