Researchers at the University of California have discovered a gene involved in generating the cerebral cortex. The finding could one day lead to stem cell therapies to treat brain injuries, stroke and Alzheimer's.
Stem cells are a fertile area of research into therapeutic treatments because of their potential to develop into any type of specialised cells. It is crucial to find which genes need to be activated in order for them to develop into the desired cell type, such as cortical neurons.
In tests on rodents, the scientists found that a gene called Lhx2 serves as a cortical 'creator' gene that instructs stem cells in the developing brain to form the cerebral cortex, the outer layer of the brain which is responsible for higher sensory and cognitive functions. Without the Lhx2 gene cortical neurons will not form.
Dr. Edwin Monukai, who led the study, said, "this new understanding of Lhx2's role in cortical development can potentially be used in stem cell research efforts to grow new cortical neurons that can replace damaged ones in the brain".
Reference
University of California - Irvine (2008, January 18). Discovery Of 'Creator' Gene For Cerebral Cortex Points To Potential Stem Cell Treatments. ScienceDaily. Retrieved February 5, 2008.
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