Exocytotic release of signaling molecules from astrocytes

Astrocyte secrete many kinds of bioactive substances including growth factors and cytokines. Recent accumulating evidences showed that astrocyte also release neurotransmitters and modulators such as glutamate, ATP and D-serine. At least, some part of these releases are mediated by exocytosis in SNARE- and Ca2+-dependent manners. These functions may play important roles in the regulation of neuronal and brain functions.