GLAST in the CNS

Neuronal expression of GLAST protein has not been detected anywhere in the nervous system in vivo, neither in the adult nor during development, although a possible expression of GLAST mRNA in granule cells of the mouse hippocampus (gyrus dentatus) at birth (PO) has been described (Sutherland et al., 1996), but this has not been verified with antibodies. However, it has recently been reported that GLAST protein is transiently expressed in a subpopulation of cultured embryonic hippocampal neurons (Plachez et ah, 2000). 

The rule applies to retina as well GLAST is present in both Muller cells and in regular astrocytes (Derouiche and Rauen, 1995 Derouiche, 1996 Rauen et ah, 1996, 1998 Lehre et ah, 1997). 

It has been debated if GLAST is expressed in the retinal pigment epithelium and in oligodendrocytes. Expression has been reported by some (Derouiche and Rauen, 1995 Choi and Chiu, 1997 Domercq and Mature, 1999 Domercq et ah, 1999), but questioned by others (Lehre et ah, 1995, 1997 Schmitt et ah, 1997). Finally, GLAST is present in fibrocytes and in supporting cells of inner ear (Furness and Lehre, 1997 Takumi et ah, 1997). 

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Schmitt A, Asan E, Puschel B, Kugler P (1997) Cellular and regional distribution of the glutamate transporter GLAST in the CNS of rats nonradioactive in situ hybridization and comparative immunocytochemistry. J Neurosci 77 1-10. 

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