Developmental neurogenesis

Developmental neurogenesis is a process of creating new neurons in the central nervous system during the period of early development. This process is critical for normal development of nervous system. During early stages of life, genes located in the cells of central nervous system, primarily in the embryonic brain, activate, leading to the formation of nerve cells and their organization into functional networks. Developmental neurogenesis involves both the migration of new neurons from an exposed cell niche to functional location and the integration of new neurons into existing neural circuitry. Signaling pathways, such as Sonic Hedgehog/Fgf Signaling (SHH/FGF) are used in the developmental neurogenesis. SHH/FGF pathways play a critical role in neural development by regulating the production of new neurons. This includes inducing the proliferation, differentiation, migration, and survival of neurons. Without these signaling pathways, proper development of specific neural structures, such as the cortex, cerebellum and brain stem, could not take place. Most newly formed neurons are generated between mid-gestation and two years after birth. During this period of time, new neurons continues to be formed and integrated into specific regions of the brain, allowing for the maturation of complex neural circuitry. After this period, the neurogenesis decreases rapidly until it ceases completely. Developmental neurogenesis is a complex and ever-changing process. Recent technological advances have helped to gain deeper understanding of the process, providing essential information to better understand the functioning of the brain. A better understanding of the developmental neurogenesis process could lead to the development of treatments of neurological and psychiatric diseases, such as autism, schizophrenia, and depression.