Alfonso Araque is Professor in the Department of Neuroscience at the University of Minnesota, USA. His research focuses on astrocyte physiology and neuron–glia interactions, particularly their roles in synaptic transmission, plasticity, and neural circuit function.
He was a pioneer in establishing the concept of the tripartite synapse, demonstrating that astrocytes are active participants in synaptic communication rather than passive supporting cells. His work has shown how astrocytes sense and integrate neuronal signals, regulate synaptic and network activity, and influence behavior. His more recent studies address astrocyte–neuron communication in ageing and Alzheimer’s disease, as well as the potential of artificial astrocytes in neural networks.
His discoveries have been published in leading journals, including Science, Nature Neuroscience, and Neuron. Professor Araque is a member of Academia Europaea and has served as President of the Spanish Glia Network and Vice-President of the Spanish Society of Neuroscience.