28 February 2002

Neurogenesis: Functional neurons in adult hippocampus

It is known that neurogenesis can occur in the adult mammalian hippocampus, a region of the brain important for learning and memory. Now there is evidence that these newly generated cells are authentic functional neurons. New cells in adult mouse hippocampus develop properties similar to those of granule cells and can generate action potentials. Possible functions for the new neurons include replacement of dying cells or provision of a degree of plasticity to the otherwise mature brain.

Functional neurogenesis in the adult hippocampus
HENRIETTE VAN PRAAG, ALEJANDRO F. SCHINDER, BRIAN R. CHRISTIE, NICOLAS TONI, THEO D. PALMER & FRED H. GAGE
Nature 415, 1030–1034 (28 February 2002)
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