According to the Astrocyte Neuron Lactate Shuttle (ANLS) model, astrocytes primarily supply L-lactate to neurons as their main energy source, which help neurons function effectively. L-lactate can also be produced from a stored form of glucose called glycogen, which is found exclusively in astrocytes. When glycogen metabolism is blocked and L-lactate production is hindered, it can lead to impaired memory and cognition. Scientific studies show that L-lactate plays a crucial role in brain function. It is not just a source of energy for neurons, but also a type of signal that helps neurons communicate and adapt. Interestingly, a similar process seems to happen in other parts of the body, where glucose contribution to the production of L-lactate powers cellular function.



About Pierre Magistretti

The Nansen Neuroscience Lecture 2023 is given by professor Pierre Magistretti on his discovery of the pivotal role played by glial cells, specifically astrocytes, in the realm of neuroenergetics.



Professor Pierre Magistretti is the Director of the KAUST Smart Health Initiative at the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST).



ABOUT THE NANSEN NEUROSCIENCE LECTURES

• The Nansen Neuroscience Lectures (NNLs) are organized in conjunction with Fridtjof Nansen’s birthday to honour his fundamental contribution to neuroscience.
• Since 10.10.2010 they are part of the Academy’s Nansen celebration.
• The NNLs are given by speakers selected from the top tier of science research. See earlier Nansen neuroscience lectures here: • Nansen Neuroscience Lecture

ON FRIDTJOF NANSEN’S CONTRIBUTION TO NEUROSCIENCE



Nansen is to be credited as father of the Neuron Doctrine (the idea that the nervous system consists of separate nerve cells rather than a continuum of tubes, published in two papers in 1886) and for realizing the significance of the neuropil (the 'dotted substance' between the nerve cell bodies) as the site of communication between the cells. Photo: KAUST