Communication, Cross Talk, and Signal Integration in the Adult Hippocampal Neurogenic Niche

Publication date: 22 January 2020Source: Neuron, Volume 105, Issue 2Author(s): Cinzia Vicidomini, Nannan Guo, Amar SahayRadial glia-like neural stem cells (RGLs) in the dentate gyrus subregion of the hippocampus give rise to dentate granule cells (DGCs) and astrocytes throughout life, a process referred to as adult hippocampal neurogenesis. Adult hippocampal neurogenesis is sensitive to experiences, suggesting that it may represent an adaptive mechanism by which hippocampal circuitry is modified in response to environmental demands. Experiential information is conveyed to RGLs, progenitors, and adult-born DGCs via the neurogenic niche that is composed of diverse cell types, extracellular matrix, and afferents. Understanding how the niche performs its functions may guide strategies to maintain its health span and provide a permissive milieu for neurogenesis. Here, we first discuss representative contributions of niche cell types to regulation of neural stem cell (NSC) homeostasis and maturation of adult-born DGCs. We then consider mechanisms by which the activity of multiple niche cell types may be coordinated to communicate signals to NSCs. Finally, we speculate how NSCs integrate niche-derived signals to govern their regulation.

Source: Neuron - January 23, 2020 Category: Neuroscience Source Type: research