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bioRxiv · 10.1101/2025.07.29.667525

The gliotransmitter S100β regulates synaptic plasticity in the visual cortex

Inglebert, Y.·Sanz-Galvez, R.·Kolta, A.
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Abstract

Synaptic plasticity is a fundamental mechanism of memory storage in the brain. Among the various rules governing changes in synaptic strength, Spike Timing-Dependent Plasticity (STDP) stands out for its strong physiological relevance in vivo. Ubiquitous across brain regions and neuronal types, STDP is a complex and multifactorial process influenced by factors such as neuromodulation, extracellular calcium levels, and activity patterns. However, one relatively understudied factor is the role of astrocytes, despite their well-established involvement in regulating synaptic transmission and neuronal excitability through gliotransmitter release. While some factors have garnered significant attention, others, like S100{beta}, have remained relatively underexplored despite their potential importance in regulating synaptic plasticity. S100{beta} is a calcium-binding protein, allowing it to influence extracellular Ca{superscript 2} concentration and potentially all Ca2+-dependent plasticity processes. Building on our previous research in the visual cortex, where we examined the regulation of neuronal excitability by S100{beta}, we chose to further investigate the role of astrocytes and S100{beta} in synaptic plasticity at layer 2/3-layer 5 synapses in the visual cortex. We demonstrated that S100{beta} is an important gliotransmitter to consider, capable of regulating long-term potentiation.

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Inglebert, Y., Sanz-Galvez, R., Kolta, A.. 2025-07-31. The gliotransmitter S100β regulates synaptic plasticity in the visual cortex. https://doi.org/10.1101/2025.07.29.667525

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