Developing brain cells from the hippocampus growing in culture
ARTHUR CHIEN/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Exploring the fascinating realm of brain science, recent evidence suggests that adults can indeed grow new brain cells through a process known as neurogenesis. This groundbreaking discovery not only sheds light on the long-standing debate surrounding neurogenesis in adulthood but also opens up possibilities for potential treatments for conditions like depression and Alzheimer’s disease.
In children, as well as in adult mice and macaques, new neurons are formed through the process of neurogenesis. Stem cells give rise to progenitor cells, which then proliferate to form immature neurons that eventually develop into fully functional neurons.
Previous studies have identified stem cells and immature neurons in the hippocampus of adult humans, a critical brain region for learning and memory. However, the absence of progenitor cells in adult humans has been a point of contention in the field of neuroscience. The recent research conducted by Jonas Frisén and his team aimed to bridge this gap by utilizing machine learning models to accurately identify progenitor cells.
By analyzing hippocampus samples from young children and training artificial intelligence models to identify progenitor cells based on gene activity, the researchers were able to pinpoint these crucial cells. Subsequent tests on samples from young mice and adult humans further validated the presence of progenitor cells in the hippocampus.
Through meticulous analysis and data processing, the team successfully identified progenitor cells in adult human donors, ranging from 20 to 78 years old. This discovery challenges prior beliefs that neurogenesis in adults is rare, highlighting the potential impact of genetic and environmental factors on the process.
Experts in the field, such as Sandrine Thuret and Hongjun Song, acknowledge the significance of these findings in advancing our understanding of adult neurogenesis. The implications of this research extend beyond theoretical knowledge, raising the possibility of studying neurogenesis variations in adults with neurological conditions.
While some, like Jon Arellano, raise concerns about the therapeutic value of newly formed brain cells in adults, others like Thuret remain optimistic about the potential benefits. The prospect of developing drugs that enhance neurogenesis to alleviate symptoms of brain disorders is an exciting area for future exploration.
Overall, this research represents a significant step forward in unraveling the mysteries of adult neurogenesis and its implications for brain health and disease. The intricate process of brain cell formation continues to captivate researchers and holds promise for innovative therapeutic interventions in the future.
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