Fig. 1

Neuroligins in astrocytes. a Schematic representation of neuroligin–neurexin intercontact. Astrocyte NLs can interact with presynaptic NRX. Their bidirectional transduction signals mediate the recruitment of calcium channels in the synaptic active zone. Neurotransmitters released by calcium channels influence synaptogenesis as well as function by binding to receptors on the synaptic surface. In addition to calcium channel recruitment, glutamate receptors such as NMDAR, AMPAR, and presynaptic vesicles are recruited to the synaptic active zone to mediate synaptogenesis and influence synaptic function. b Intercontact between astrocytes NL and presynaptic NRX may affect the expression of synaptogenic factors such as thrombin-reactive protein and SPARCL1/Hevin secreted by astrocytes. Neuroligin–neurexin intercontact resulting in elevated expression of synaptogenic factors can cause post-synaptic recruitment of AMPAR and NMDAR and affect synaptic generation. At the same time, these synaptogenic factors can also be targeted for release into the inter-synapse and participate in the regulation of synaptic function