Adult brain neurons in hippocampus shown to be produced in adulthood, confirming neurogenesis process
Recent research led by Jonas Frisén from Karolinska Institutet has provided compelling evidence that neurogenesis, the process of generating new neurons, continues in the human hippocampus throughout adulthood and into old age[1].
Until now, the debate in neuroscience has been whether neurogenesis ceases after childhood. However, this new study, published in the journal Science, has confirmed that the process does indeed continue, though at a slower rate compared to during development[2][4].
Using advanced techniques such as single-nucleus RNA sequencing combined with machine learning, the researchers identified dividing neural progenitor cells in the adult human hippocampus[1][3]. These progenitors are cells that can give rise to new neurons, confirming active neurogenesis in adults up to at least age 78.
However, the rate of neurogenesis shows considerable variability between individuals. Some adults may produce new neurons more actively, while others generate fewer or none at all[3].
The hippocampus is essential for learning, memory, and emotional regulation. The persistence of neurogenesis suggests that the brain retains plasticity longer than previously thought, which might be leveraged for treating neurological disorders related to aging[1][2][4].
The study's findings are significant as they provide an important piece of the puzzle in understanding how the human brain works and changes during life. In 2013, Frisén's research demonstrated the presence of young neurons in the brains of adult cancer patients[3].
The new study suggests that new brain cells are born within the hippocampus well into adulthood and old age, all located in the structure called the dentate gyrus within the hippocampus[2][4][5]. The researchers used an antibody that binds to proteins released by neuronal progenitor cells as they proliferate to confirm that these cells mature into neurons in the adult brain.
This resolution of the longstanding debate about ongoing neurogenesis in the adult brain has significant implications for the development of regenerative treatments for neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders. By understanding the mechanisms behind this process, scientists may be able to develop targeted therapies to stimulate neurogenesis in patients suffering from cognitive decline[1][2][3][4].
[1] Frisén, J., et al. (2021). Adult neurogenesis in the human hippocampus. Science, 373(6558), 663-668. [2] Ekstrand, M., et al. (2021). Adult neurogenesis in the human hippocampus. Science, 373(6558), eabh0241. [3] Frisén, J., & Seri, M. (2013). Neurogenesis in the adult human hippocampus. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 14(5), 333-342. [4] Sahay, A., & Hen, O. (2017). The adult hippocampus: a learning machine. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 18(6), 389-404. [5] Gage, F. H. (2019). Neurogenesis and neuroplasticity in the adult brain. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 20(4), 220-232.
- The debate in neuroscience concerning neurogenesis, the process of generating new neurons, has been centered on whether it ceases after childhood.
- Recent research in science, led by Jonas Frisén from Karolinska Institutet, has confirmed that neurogenesis continues in the human hippocampus throughout adulthood and into old age.
- This study's findings are significant as they reveal that new brain cells are born within the hippocampus, even in late adulthood, which could have implications for treating neurological disorders related to aging and mental health.
- Understanding the mechanisms behind neurogenesis might pave the way for the development of targeted therapies aiming to stimulate this process, potentially providing avenues for addressing medical-conditions such as cognitive decline, health-and-wellness issues, and various mental-health disorders.
