Dynamic interactions between GABAergic and astrocytic networks

• Astrocytes respond to GABAergic signal with increases in the intracellular Ca 2+ concentration. • GABA-activated astrocytes release gliotransmitters that modulate neuronal activity • Astrocytes can influence GABAergic transmission. • The interplay between GABAergic interneurons and astrocytes is relevant for brain physiology and pathology. Brain network activity derives from the concerted action of different cell populations. Together with interneurons, astrocytes play fundamental roles in shaping the inhibition in brain circuitries and modulating neuronal transmission. In this review, we summarize past and recent findings that reveal in neural networks the importance of the interaction between GABAergic signaling and astrocytes and discuss its physiological and pathological relevance.