For decades glial cells were considered passive supporters of nerve function, lacking the fundamental characteristics of excitability and signal integration. However, as a result of recent electrophysiological and imaging studies, it is now clear that glial cells are central to the mechanisms of information processing in the brain. They are involved in the continuous, dynamic and integrated exchange of rapid signals with nerve cells and the regulation of synaptic transmission. This book will present the research evidence underpinning this major shift in our understanding of the role of these cells.

Book Info
The third author, Philip G. Haydon, is with the Univ. of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia. Text introduces the concepts of glial cells as active elements of the synapse and the nervous circuitry and the supporting evidence. Presents a view of brain activity based on the network of interactive neurons and glia. For neuroscientists, neurobiologists, and cell biologists.