regulation of neurogenesis

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

Any process that modulates the frequency, rate or extent of neurogenesis, the generation of cells in the nervous system. [GOC:ai]

Neurogenesis, the process of generating new neurons, is tightly regulated by a complex interplay of intrinsic and extrinsic factors.

**Intrinsic factors** include transcription factors, signaling pathways, and epigenetic modifications that control the expression of genes involved in neuronal development.

**Extrinsic factors** are cues from the environment, such as growth factors, neurotrophic factors, and cell-cell interactions, that influence the fate of neural progenitor cells.

**Key steps in the regulation of neurogenesis:**

**1. Commitment and Proliferation of Neural Progenitors:**
- Neural stem cells (NSCs) are multipotent cells that can self-renew and give rise to all types of neurons.
- Signaling pathways, such as the Wnt, Shh, and Notch pathways, regulate the commitment of NSCs to neural progenitors.
- Proliferation of neural progenitors is regulated by growth factors, including fibroblast growth factor (FGF), epidermal growth factor (EGF), and platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF).

**2. Neuronal Differentiation:**
- Neural progenitors differentiate into specific neuronal subtypes, each with unique characteristics and functions.
- Transcription factors, such as Pax6, Neurogenin2, and Mash1, play crucial roles in specifying neuronal identity.
- The timing and location of neuronal differentiation are influenced by extrinsic factors, such as neurotrophic factors and cell-cell interactions.

**3. Neuronal Migration and Axon Guidance:**
- Newly generated neurons migrate to their appropriate locations within the brain.
- Migration is guided by radial glial cells, chemoattractants, and chemo repellents.
- Axons extend and navigate to their target cells, a process guided by axon guidance cues.

**4. Synaptogenesis and Circuit Formation:**
- Neurons form synapses, specialized junctions that allow communication between neurons.
- Synaptogenesis is regulated by activity-dependent mechanisms, such as neurotrophins and synaptic adhesion molecules.
- Neurons integrate into neuronal circuits, forming functional networks within the brain.

**5. Neuronal Survival and Maturation:**
- Neurotrophic factors, such as brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and nerve growth factor (NGF), promote the survival and maturation of neurons.
- Synaptic plasticity, the ability of synapses to strengthen or weaken, is a critical aspect of neuronal maturation and learning.

**Regulation of neurogenesis is a dynamic and tightly controlled process that is essential for brain development, plasticity, and repair.**'
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Proteins (7)

Compounds (13)