Gap Junctions Synchronize Neuronal Activity, Contributing to Epilepsy (IMAGE)

American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)

Gap Junctions Synchronize Neuronal Activity, Contributing to Epilepsy

Caption

Gap junctions are specialized channels that allow neighboring cells to communicate by exchanging ions and small molecules. Whether gap junction-linked networks fuel or dampen neuronal activity, including that involved in seizures, has been widely debated. This material relates to a paper that appeared in the 13 January 2016 issue of Science Translational Medicine, published by AAAS. The paper, by O. Chever at Collège de France in Paris, France, and colleagues was titled, "Astroglial networks promote neuronal coordination."

Credit

AAAS / Carla Schaffer

Usage Restrictions

Please cite the owner of the material when publishing. This material may be freely used by reporters as part of news coverage, with proper attribution. Non-reporters must contact <i>Science</i> for permission.

License

Licensed content

Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.