Activity dependent changes in visual cortex involve both structural and functional modifications. Visual experience modulates the maturation of neuronal circuits, including spine structural dynamics. Astrocytes have been shown to ensheath synapses and regulate neuronal activity by the uptake and release of neurotransmitters. They have also been shown to possess highly motile processes and it is likely that these morphological changes play a role in activity dependent plasticity of neuronal circuits. In this study, we examined the effects of monocular deprivation on the expression of astrocyte-specific proteins during postnatal critical period for experience-dependent plasticity in the mouse visual cortex. Mice were monocularly deprived at postnatal day 24 (P24) for 4 days until the peak of critical period. Preliminary analysis from proteomic data showed a reduction of astrocytic-specific proteins, including GFAP protein levels. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed a significant reduction of GFAP-labeled astrocytes in mouse visual cortex as compared to non-deprived control mice. These findings further establish the dynamic nature of astrocyte plasticity in response to visual experience.

Society for Neuroscience Abstract, 2010.