Neurogenesis: Does the adult brain really produce new neurons?

 While neurogenesis, the process of creating new neurons, is an established biological phenomenon, recent discoveries have challenged the belief that this process continues in the adult brain. Emerging research reveals that certain areas of the adult brain contain dormant neural stem cells, capable of being reactivated to form new neurons. 

These neural stem cells are the architects of the brain during embryonic development, responsible for the formation of all central nervous system cells, including neurons. Even after the brain is fully formed, these stem cells persist in specific regions and have the potential to generate new neurons throughout life.

However, in the adult brain, these stem cells often become silent or 'dormant', meaning their capacity to regenerate and differentiate is considerably reduced. 

A groundbreaking study by a team at the University of Geneva has unveiled a mechanism that can 'awaken' these dormant neural stem cells. Through the inhibition of the mitochondrial pyruvate transporter, a protein complex, the team managed to reactivate these cells. This was accomplished either through the use of chemical inhibitors or by leveraging a genetic mechanism. 

This pioneering research has significant implications for our understanding of neurodegenerative diseases. In particular, it unveils the potential of cell metabolism in the regulation of neurogenesis, and opens up exciting new avenues for understanding and potentially treating neurodegenerative conditions .