The novel roles of glial cells revisited: the contribution of radial glia and astrocytes to neurogenesis.

摘要: Astroglial cells are the most frequent cell type in adult mammalian brain, and number range of their diverse functions still increasing. One striking roles is function as neural stem contribution to neurogenesis. This chapter discusses first role ubiquitous glial developing nervous system, radial cells. Radial share several features with neuroepithelial cells, but also astrocytes mature which led name “radial glia.” At end neurogenesis disappear, a subset them transforms into astroglial Interestingly, only some maintain neurogenic potential continue generate neurons throughout life. We discuss current knowledge about differences between that remain act majority other have apparently lost capacity neurons. Additionally, we review changes upon brain lesion, dedifferentiation recapitulation properties, conditions under reactive glia may reinitiate potential. Given not an key wound reaction injury, it essential further understand heterogeneity molecular specification, final aim using this unique source for neuronal replacement. Therefore, one advances field neurobiology discovery can during development, life potentially even after lesion.