The authors assessed the localization and expression of Kir4.1 channels in the LHb of two animal models of depression (the already investigated cLH rat and the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-treated rat), demonstrating that Kir4.1 is expressed both on astrocytic endfeet surrounding synapses and on astrocytic processes contacting the neuronal soma, and showing an up-regulation of Kir4.1 in the LHb of both animal models, at least in part dependent on transcription. The gene discussed is KCNJ10; the disease is depressive disorder.