Neuro-glial communication through the dynamic interstitial space

The interstitial space is a crucial fluid media which links neural and glial cells to communicate each other concentration signals, which are essential for homeostasis (and homeorhesis) in the brain and other neural tissues. The boundaries of this space are the outer membranes of the interfacing cells. Thus, such morphological alterations as the protrusion and/or retraction of cellular processes, whatever are their reasons, inevitably shift these boundaries making the interstitial space structurally dynamic. Dynamic changes in the interstitial space volume and boundary surface mean dynamic reshaping of the reservoir for extracellular ions and signaling molecules with essential consequences for all concentration-dependent events in space and on its boundaries (gradients and diffusion of substances, their metabolic reactions, binding cell membrane receptors, etc.). These dynamic processes being critical for neuronal and glial function in health and disease deserve analysis and conceptualization.

This Research Topic aims at bringing together contributions of researchers from different domains of expertise and building a conceptual framework for deeper insight into the mechanisms underlying communication and signaling between neurons and glial cells through the interstitial space. Of special interest are neuro-glial communication mechanisms operating in the dynamically changing interstitial space due to extension and/or retraction of cell processes, other alterations of cellular morphology during normal development or degeneration or caused by endogenous factors or exogenous impacts.

We welcome research and methodological articles, mini-reviews, conceptual summaries and opinion pieces addressing the following topics:

• Mechanisms governing the structural dynamics of the interstitial space, including the development and degeneration of cellular processes under the influence of endogenous and exogenous factors

• The role of glial cells in regulating interstitial space volume and composition

• Influence of interstitial space dynamics on the ion and neurotransmitter concentrations and fluxes with consequences for neuronal and glial functions

• Functional consequences of altered signaling in the context of neurological diseases including but not limited to neurodegenerative disorders, inflammation and trauma

• Impact of neuroinflammation on interstitial space signaling

• Mathematical and computer models for studying interstitial space dynamics and neuroglial communication in health and disease

• Other relevant topics of particular interest are studies that combine in vivo, ex vivo and computational approaches to advance our understanding of these processes