anterior commissure morphogenesis

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

Generation of a long process of a CNS neuron, that carries efferent (outgoing) action potentials from the cell body in one half of the cerebral cortex towards target cells in the contralateral half. This axonal process is a member of those that make up the anterior commissure, a small midline fiber tract that lies at the anterior end of the corpus callosum. [GO_REF:0000021, GOC:cls, GOC:dgh, GOC:dph, GOC:jid, ISBN:0878937420]

The anterior commissure (AC) is a white matter tract connecting the two cerebral hemispheres, playing a vital role in communication and information processing. Its morphogenesis is a complex process, starting early in embryonic development and extending into postnatal life.

The formation of the AC begins with the proliferation and migration of neuronal precursors from the ventral telencephalon, specifically the preoptic area. These precursors migrate along specific pathways, guided by chemoattractants and cell-cell interactions, to reach their designated positions within the AC.

As these neuronal precursors arrive at their final destinations, they differentiate into neurons, establishing connections with their counterparts in the opposite hemisphere. This process, called synaptogenesis, involves the formation of specialized junctions called synapses, allowing for the transmission of electrical or chemical signals between neurons.

The growth and refinement of the AC rely heavily on the coordinated interplay of several molecules and signaling pathways. Axon guidance cues, such as netrin-1 and Slit2, guide the extending axons of neurons towards their targets. Cell adhesion molecules, like L1CAM and N-cadherin, mediate cell-cell interactions, ensuring proper neuronal assembly within the AC.

Furthermore, the intricate interplay of neurotrophic factors, such as BDNF and NGF, promotes neuronal survival, growth, and differentiation. These factors contribute to the overall structural organization and functional maturation of the AC.

Throughout development, the AC undergoes significant remodeling, involving synapse elimination and the formation of new connections, driven by experience and activity-dependent plasticity. This continuous refinement ensures that the AC is optimally structured and functionally adaptable to meet the evolving needs of the brain.

In summary, AC morphogenesis is a dynamic and multi-step process involving neuronal migration, differentiation, synaptogenesis, and continuous remodeling, orchestrated by a complex interplay of molecular signals, cell interactions, and neuronal activity.'
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Proteins (1)

Compounds (6)