Astrocyte activation in the ventrolateral medulla modulates breathing and arousal states
Jan-Marino Ramirez
Nature Communications, Published online: 23 May 2026; doi:10.1038/s41467-026-73208-8 The study shows that a subpopulation of brainstem astrocytes actively regulates breathing and brain states. Activating these cells alters respiratory patterns and increases sighing, revealing a key role in linking neural activity, arousal, and respiratory control.