Neurodevelopment: From Stem Cells to Signaling and Beyond

Neurodevelopment encompasses the highly coordinated processes that lead to the formation, maturation, and functional integration of neurons and glial cells in the central nervous system (CNS). Starting from early embryonic stages and continuing through postnatal development, neurogenesis, cell migration, differentiation, and synaptic formation are meticulously regulated. The orchestration of these events is crucial for normal CNS function and any disruptions can lead to a range of neurodevelopmental disorders. Neural stem cells (NSCs) play a pivotal role in generating the diverse cell types of the nervous system, while signaling pathways, epigenetic factors, and the cellular microenvironment provide essential regulatory cues impacting NSC cell fate decisions. Understanding these critical processes not only sheds light on fundamental aspects of neural development but also offers insights into potential therapeutic strategies for neurodevelopmental disorders.

This Research Topic aims to deepen our understanding of neurodevelopment by investigating the roles of stem cells and signaling pathways, among other critical mechanisms. We invite researchers to contribute with research and perspectives that cover fundamental aspects of neurodevelopment and highlight innovative methodologies. By collecting the latest advances across different subthemes, we aim to foster interdisciplinary collaboration that can enhance our knowledge of neurodevelopment and open new avenues for the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of neurodevelopmental disorders.

Areas to be covered may include but are not limited to:

1. Stem Cell Dynamics in Neurodevelopment

• Characterization and roles of neural stem cells (NSCs) in early CNS development.

• Mechanisms governing NSC self-renewal, proliferation, and lineage commitment.

• Impact of the NSC microenvironment and niche interactions on neurodevelopment.

2. Signaling Pathways in Neurodevelopmental Processes

• Role of key signaling pathways such as Notch, Wnt, Hedgehog, and BMP in neurodevelopment.

• Interaction and cross-talk between signaling pathways in guiding neural differentiation and maturation.

• Consequences of signaling dysregulation in neurodevelopmental disorders.

3. Epigenetic and Transcriptional Regulation

• Influence of epigenetic modifications (e.g., DNA methylation, histone acetylation) on neurodevelopment.

• Key transcription factors regulating the neurodevelopmental gene expression programs.

• Coordination between epigenetic and transcriptional machinery in neural development.

4. Innovative Techniques and Models in Neurodevelopment Research

• Application of advanced imaging techniques and single-cell sequencing in studying neurodevelopment.

• Development and use of organoids, 3D cultures, and animal models for investigating CNS development.

• Quantitative biology studies combining models and experimentation.

We accept different article types including Mini-Reviews, Brief Research Reports, and Perspectives. A full list of accepted article types, including descriptions, can be found at this link.

Article types and fees

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Data Report
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• General Commentary
• Hypothesis and Theory
• Methods
• Mini Review
• Opinion
• ... View all formats

Articles that are accepted for publication by our external editors following rigorous peer review incur a publishing fee charged to Authors, institutions, or funders.

Article types

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Data Report
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• General Commentary
• Hypothesis and Theory
• Methods
• Mini Review
• Opinion
• Original Research
• Perspective
• Review
• Technology and Code

Keywords: neurodevelopment, signaling, stem cells, central nervous system, NSC

Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.