This Research Topic is the second volume of the Research Topic "Advances in Adult Neurogenesis". Please see the first volume
here.
Adult neurogenesis, the process by which new neurons are generated in the adult brain, has been a rapidly expanding field of research over the past few decades. Initially, it was believed that neurogenesis was limited to early development, but recent studies have demonstrated that new neurons are continuously produced in the adult brain, particularly in the hippocampus and ventricular-subventricular zone (V-SVZ). More intriguingly, neurogenesis has also been identified in other brain regions such as the hypothalamus, striatum, substantia nigra, cortex, and amygdala. This discovery has profound implications for our understanding of brain plasticity, learning, memory, emotional regulation, and mental health. Despite these advances, significant gaps remain in our understanding of the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying adult neurogenesis, its functional roles, and its potential as a therapeutic target for neurodegenerative diseases and neuropsychiatric disorders.
This Research Topic aims to delve deeper into the multifaceted aspects of adult neurogenesis. Specifically, it seeks to answer critical questions about the molecular and cellular mechanisms that differentiate adult neurogenesis from early developmental neurogenesis. It also aims to explore the link between the generation of new neurons in adulthood and psychological well-being, as well as the relationship between new neurons and cognitive functions such as learning and memory. By addressing these questions, the research aims to uncover the necessity of adult neurogenesis in specific neurobiological functions and its potential as a therapeutic target.
To gather further insights into the complexities of adult neurogenesis, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:
- Contributions that compare adult neurogenesis to early neurogenesis in development, with particular emphasis on molecular and cellular mechanisms
- The link between the development of new neurons during adulthood and psychological well-being
- The relationship between new memories/learnings and new neurons
- The role of adult neurogenesis in cognitive and behavioral functions
- The necessity of adult neurogenesis in specific neurobiological functions
- Adult neurogenesis as a therapeutic target
- Novel approaches to study the importance of adult neurogenesis
- The effects of anesthesia on adult neurogenesis
- Adult neurogenesis in mammals: interspecies differences and evolutionary trends
- The influence of the gut microbiome on adult neurogenesis.