Aggression is often seen as a negative emotion, leading to conflicts and violence.
However, it serves a purpose in many species for survival. Managing your aggression is important.
Specialists conducted an experiment with mice and found that neuron-glial interactions in the cerebellum influence aggression.
How it was studied
Tapping into the power of glial activity may hold promise as a therapeutic approach for handling anger and aggression.
Beyond its known role in motor functions, the cerebellum is now acknowledged for its involvement in social cognition.
Problems with the cerebellum can arise in conditions like autism spectrum disorders and schizophrenia, impacting how individuals interact socially.
To tackle aggression in mice, the scientists honed in on Bergmann glial cells residing in the cerebellar vermis, a region linked to aggression in humans.
The enigmatic role of glial cells in the brain has puzzled researchers for a considerable period.
The specialists used a newly developed fiber photometry method to explore their physiology.
How it was conducted
In the experiment, fights between resident and intruder mice were observed, and the intracellular Ca2+ levels in cerebellar glia changed based on the mice's fight outcomes.
Stimulation of cerebellar glia induced changes in brain activity and caused fights to end earlier.
Glia control the local environment in the brain and can affect nearby neuronal activity.
Why it's important
The discoveries indicate that cerebellar glial cells have a role in controlling aggression in mice, potentially paving the way for therapeutic interventions that focus on manipulating glial activity in the cerebellum to address issues of excessive aggression and violent behavior.
The lead researcher holds the belief that by utilizing the inherent capacity of cerebellar glia to regulate aggression, a future characterized by greater peace and tranquility may be within reach.
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