Regulation and functional significance of neurogenesis in the adult brain

Abstract : Emerging advances in stem cell biology of the adult brain including the evidence of adult neurogenesis and the selective expansion of neural stem cells (NSCs) in vitro have tremendously raised the hope in the development of regenerative therapy for many neurological disorders. The neurogenic process in the mammalian brain is highly complex that include stem cell proliferation, differentiation, migration, maturation and functional integration of newborn neurons into the existing neuronal network.

Though the generation of functional neurons in the adult brain is tightly linked with brain plasticity and cognitive functions, the exact cellular and molecular cues governing neurogenesis in distinctive neural stem cell niches are not completely known. To note, the proliferative and/or differentiation properties of NSCs are known to be impaired in the ageing and neurodegenerative brains. However, the neurogenic potential of NSCs can positively be modulated by physical exercise, enriched environments, hormones, growth factors and pharmacological agents. While, NSC derived neurogensis represents the regenerative capacity of the adult brain, stimulating the NSCs can compensate neuronal dysfunction and neurodegeneration. Thus, the motor and cognitive functions that are impaired in progressive brain disorders can be restored. Further, 1) investigating the cellular and molecular process underlying adult neurogenesis and 2) identification and development of neurogenic paradigm have become increasingly important for ageing society.