Astrocyte CB1 receptors are required for inhibitory maturation and ocular dominance plasticity in the mouse visual cortex.

A preprint abstract from biorxiv.org discusses the role of astrocyte CB1 receptors in inhibitory maturation and ocular dominance plasticity in the mouse visual cortex. The study suggests that endocannabinoids, which signal through the CB1 receptor, play a key role in the maturation of inhibitory circuits in the developing neocortex. Specifically, the removal of CB1 receptors from astrocytes interferes with the maturation of inhibitory synaptic transmission and reduces ocular dominance plasticity during the critical period. These findings highlight the involvement of glial cells in the plasticity and synaptic maturation of sensory circuits. Please note that this preprint has not been peer-reviewed. [Extracted from the article]