AstroNet: a Graph Reconstruction Algorithm Coupled to Image Processing to Unveiling Functional Connectivity of Astrocytic Networks

AstroNet is a pipline that uses two-photon calcium imaging to map temporal correlations in activation events among neighboring astrocytes leading a network resonstruction where statistical properties can be extracted such as the degre of the nodes, hub astrocyte and many more.

AstroNet reconstructs functional astrocytic networks by organizing individual astrocyte activation events chronologically. This chronological order creates activity paths that enable the extraction of local astrocyte functional correlations. Ultimately, by tallying the occurrences of direct co-activations between pairs of cells along these pathways, Astronet construct a graph that mirrors the intricate astrocyte functional network.  This method enables the identification of activation paths among astrocytes, facilitates the characterization of local network functional connectivity, and quantifies distinct connectivity patterns among astrocytes from different brain regions.

AstroNet can be used to studt the heterogeneous functional organization of astrocytic networks within the brain, pointing to region-specific astrocyte connectivity.