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Oligodendroglial metabolic support of myelinated axons driven by K+ dynamics

Nature Neuroscience volume 27, pages 397–398 (2024)Cite this article

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This research elucidates that oligodendrocytes detect and respond to fast axonal spiking through K+ signaling, and that Kir4.1 channel activation has a pivotal role. This activity-driven interaction regulates axonal metabolic support by oligodendrocytes and influences lactate delivery and glucose metabolism in axons, which is essential for sustaining axonal health.

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Fig. 1: K+-mediated metabolic coupling in white matter.

References

  1. Saab, A. S. & Nave, K.-A. Myelin dynamics: protecting and shaping neuronal functions. Curr. Opin. Neurobiol. 47, 104–112 (2017). This review explores the role of oligodendrocytes in metabolic support and maintenance of axonal health.

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This is a summary of: Looser, Z. J. et al. Oligodendrocyte–axon metabolic coupling is mediated by extracellular K+ and maintains axonal health. Nat. Neurosci. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41593-023-01558-3 (2024)

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Oligodendroglial metabolic support of myelinated axons driven by K+ dynamics. Nat Neurosci 27, 397–398 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41593-023-01559-2

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