Neural Stem Cells (NSCs) are multipotent cells found primarily in specific niches of the adult central nervous system, notably the subventricular zone and the subgranular zone of the hippocampus, possessing the capacity for self-renewal and differentiation. These cells can generate the main phenotypes of the nervous system: neurons, astrocytes, and oligodendrocytes. Their function is crucial for neurogenesis, the ongoing creation of new neurons, which is vital for cognitive plasticity, memory, and repair following neurological injury.
Origin
The term is a fundamental concept in neuroscience and regenerative medicine, combining neural (relating to the nervous system) with stem cells (cells with self-renewal and differentiation potential). While the existence of neurogenesis in the adult brain was once debated, its confirmation established NSCs as the biological substrate for brain plasticity and endogenous repair mechanisms. Hormonal health research explores how endocrine factors modulate NSC proliferation and differentiation.
Mechanism
NSCs operate through tightly regulated signaling pathways that govern their proliferation, migration, and differentiation into mature cell types. Hormones, including sex steroids and thyroid hormones, act as powerful extrinsic modulators, binding to receptors on the NSCs to influence gene expression. For instance, estrogen can promote NSC survival and differentiation into neurons, while chronic stress hormones like glucocorticoids can suppress neurogenesis, illustrating a direct link between the endocrine and nervous systems.
We use cookies to personalize content and marketing, and to analyze our traffic. This helps us maintain the quality of our free resources. manage your preferences below.
Detailed Cookie Preferences
This helps support our free resources through personalized marketing efforts and promotions.
Analytics cookies help us understand how visitors interact with our website, improving user experience and website performance.
Personalization cookies enable us to customize the content and features of our site based on your interactions, offering a more tailored experience.