Figure 2.

Diagram representing how the wiring of astrocytes adds more complexity to neuroglial networking. Several situations are considered: from a single one-by-one relationship (A), to a multiple relation with a single neuron that contacts several astrocytes (B) and the reverse situation where several neurons make synapses within an astrocytic domain (C). When considering the gap junction-mediated networking of astrocytes, the number of interactions is largely increased (D). Note that in (D), the interactions illustrated in (B) and those occurring between neurons themselves are not represented. Finally, the interaction between astrocytes and the vascular system are just suggested (gray arrows). The complex interactions illustrated in (D) (black arrows) are expected to affect the well-established role of astrocytic end-feet in the control of blood flow.