Neuro–glia communication and glycolysis

The human brain is a complex organ that controls every process that enables our body to function. However, this superpower of the brain comes with hefty energy requirements, rendering it highly vulnerable to dysfunction in case of energy shortage. There is compelling evidence showing that different cell types work together to maintain healthy brain activity and functions. Highly relevant among them are neuron–glia interactions. As pinpointed in a plethora of studies, neuron–glia communication is an essential pillar to many vital functions in the brain, disruption of which emerges as an important contributor to brain malfunction and disease. This chapter briefly discusses the metabolic profile of neurons and astrocytes and how these cells interact to establish a metabolic cooperation. We will focus our attention on recent advances in the understanding of the highly relevant interaction of each glial cell type (astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and microglia) with neurons to sustain glucose metabolism homeostasis and basic brain physiology. A brief overview will be made on conditions in which this cooperation becomes inoperative.