formation of radial glial scaffolds

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The formation of scaffolds from a radial glial cell. The scaffolds are used as a substrate for the radial migration of cells. [GO_REF:0000021, GOC:cls, GOC:dgh, GOC:dph, GOC:jid, PMID:15157725]

Radial glial scaffolds are critical structures in the developing vertebrate brain that provide a framework for neuronal migration and differentiation. They are specialized glial cells that extend long, radial processes from the ventricular zone, the innermost layer of the developing brain, to the pial surface, the outermost layer. These processes serve as guiding tracks for migrating neurons, allowing them to reach their final destinations in the brain.

The formation of radial glial scaffolds begins during early embryogenesis with the specification of radial glial progenitors from the neuroepithelium. These progenitors undergo asymmetric cell division, giving rise to both a radial glial cell and a neuroblast. The radial glial cell retains its progenitor potential and continues to divide, while the neuroblast migrates away from the ventricular zone along the radial glial process to become a mature neuron.

The radial glial process itself is a complex structure that is composed of a variety of proteins, including microtubules, actin filaments, and intermediate filaments. These cytoskeletal components provide structural support and facilitate the transport of molecules along the process. The radial glial process also expresses cell adhesion molecules, such as integrins and cadherins, which mediate interactions between the radial glia and migrating neurons.

As the brain develops, the radial glial scaffold undergoes a number of changes. For example, the number of radial glial cells increases during the period of active neurogenesis, and the length of the radial glial processes increases as the brain grows. In addition, the radial glial scaffold can be remodeled in response to environmental cues, such as changes in the concentration of growth factors or the presence of other cells.

The formation and maintenance of the radial glial scaffold is essential for normal brain development. Disruptions in radial glial function can lead to a variety of neurodevelopmental disorders, including microcephaly, lissencephaly, and polymicrogyria. These disorders are characterized by abnormal brain size, structure, or function.

In summary, radial glial scaffolds play a critical role in brain development by providing a framework for neuronal migration and differentiation. They are dynamic structures that are regulated by a variety of factors, including cell division, cytoskeletal dynamics, and cell-cell interactions. Disruptions in radial glial function can lead to severe neurodevelopmental disorders.'
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Proteins (1)

Compounds (17)