central nervous system neuron development

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The process whose specific outcome is the progression of a neuron whose cell body is located in the central nervous system, from initial commitment of the cell to a neuronal fate, to the fully functional differentiated neuron. [GO_REF:0000021, GOC:cls, GOC:dgh, GOC:dph, GOC:jid]

Central nervous system (CNS) neuron development is a complex and tightly regulated process that begins early in embryonic development and continues throughout life. It involves a series of intricate steps, including:

1. **Neural Induction:** The first step in CNS development is the induction of the neural plate from the ectoderm, the outermost germ layer of the embryo. This process is triggered by signaling molecules from the underlying mesoderm, such as Wnt, BMP, and Nodal.
2. **Neural Tube Formation:** The neural plate folds inward, eventually forming a hollow tube known as the neural tube. This tube will give rise to the brain and spinal cord. The neural tube closes at the anterior and posterior ends, forming the brain and spinal cord respectively.
3. **Neural Progenitor Proliferation:** Once the neural tube is formed, neural progenitor cells, also known as neuroepithelial cells, proliferate rapidly. These cells are multipotent and can differentiate into different types of neurons and glia.
4. **Neurogenesis:** Neural progenitor cells give rise to neurons through a process called neurogenesis. This involves the expression of specific genes that determine the fate of the neuron, such as the transcription factors Pax6, Mash1, and NeuroD1.
5. **Migration:** Newly formed neurons migrate from their birthplace in the ventricular zone to their final destination in the brain or spinal cord. This migration is guided by various cues, including chemoattractants, chemorepellents, and cell adhesion molecules.
6. **Axon Growth and Guidance:** Neurons extend axons, which are long projections that transmit signals to other neurons or target cells. Axon growth is guided by a variety of factors, including chemoattractants, chemorepellents, and extracellular matrix molecules.
7. **Synapse Formation:** Once axons reach their targets, they form synapses, specialized junctions that allow communication between neurons. Synapse formation involves the release of neurotransmitters from the presynaptic neuron and the reception of these neurotransmitters by the postsynaptic neuron.
8. **Myelination:** Some axons are wrapped in a fatty sheath called myelin, which increases the speed of signal transmission. Myelination is carried out by glial cells, specifically oligodendrocytes in the CNS and Schwann cells in the peripheral nervous system.
9. **Synaptic Plasticity:** Synapses are not static structures. They are constantly changing in response to experience, a process known as synaptic plasticity. This plasticity allows for learning and memory formation.

Overall, CNS neuron development is a highly dynamic and intricate process that involves the coordinated actions of many genes, signaling molecules, and cell types. This process is essential for the formation and function of the brain and spinal cord, which are responsible for controlling all aspects of our behavior and cognition.'
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Proteins (7)

Compounds (427)