sympathetic ganglion development

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The process whose specific outcome is the progression of a sympathetic ganglion over time, from its formation to the mature structure. [GOC:BHF, GOC:rl]

Sympathetic ganglion development is a complex process that begins during embryogenesis and continues into adulthood. It involves the coordinated interaction of multiple cell types, including neural crest cells, glial cells, and vascular cells.

**1. Neural Crest Cell Migration and Specification:**
- Neural crest cells, a multipotent cell population derived from the neural tube, migrate from the dorsal neural tube to the periphery.
- Specific signaling molecules, including Wnt, BMP, and Shh, guide these migrating neural crest cells towards the developing sympathetic chain.
- Upon reaching their destination, neural crest cells undergo a process called specification, where they commit to becoming sympathetic neurons.
- The transcription factors Phox2a and Phox2b play crucial roles in this specification process.

**2. Sympathetic Ganglion Formation:**
- Once specified, sympathetic neuron precursors begin to aggregate and form clusters called sympathetic ganglia.
- These ganglia are positioned along the vertebral column, near the spinal cord, and in the periphery.
- Within the ganglia, sympathetic neurons establish connections with each other and with target organs.

**3. Neuronal Differentiation and Maturation:**
- Sympathetic neurons undergo further differentiation, acquiring specialized properties such as the ability to synthesize and release neurotransmitters like norepinephrine.
- They also develop axons that project to various target tissues, including the heart, blood vessels, smooth muscle, and glands.
- The transcription factors Hand2, Mash1, and Isl1 are involved in regulating the expression of genes required for neuronal differentiation.

**4. Glial Cell Development:**
- Alongside the neurons, glial cells, such as Schwann cells and satellite cells, also develop within sympathetic ganglia.
- Schwann cells provide myelin sheaths for axons, while satellite cells surround and support neuronal cell bodies.
- These glial cells are essential for the proper function and survival of sympathetic neurons.

**5. Vascularization:**
- Adequate blood supply is crucial for the development and maintenance of sympathetic ganglia.
- Blood vessels penetrate the ganglia, providing oxygen and nutrients to the growing neurons and glial cells.
- Angiogenic factors, such as VEGF, promote blood vessel formation during ganglion development.

**6. Postnatal Maturation and Plasticity:**
- Sympathetic ganglia continue to mature after birth, with ongoing neuronal differentiation and synapse formation.
- These ganglia also exhibit plasticity, adapting to changing physiological conditions and demands.
- For example, sympathetic neurons can adjust their neurotransmitter release and target organ innervation in response to stress or exercise.

The development of sympathetic ganglia is tightly regulated by a complex interplay of genetic, molecular, and environmental factors. Disruptions in this process can lead to a variety of developmental defects, including congenital abnormalities and neurological disorders.'
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Proteins (2)

Compounds (8)