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Synapses on NG2-expressing progenitors in the brain: multiple functions?

Vittorio Gallo1, Jean-Marie Mangin, Maria Kukley

  • 1Center for Neuroscience Research, Children's National Medical Center, 111 Michigan Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20010, USA. vgallo@cnmcresearch.org

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NG2-expressing progenitor cells in the brain receive synaptic input from neurons. These synapses may have varied roles depending on the brain region and progenitor cell functions.

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Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Cell Biology
  • Developmental Biology

Background:

  • NG2-expressing (NG2(+)) progenitor cells constitute ~5% of adult brain cells.
  • These progenitors are found in both grey and white matter and differentiate into oligodendrocytes.
  • NG2(+) progenitors receive synaptic input from both excitatory and inhibitory neurons.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review recent findings on the functional properties of synapses on NG2(+) cells.
  • To integrate knowledge of NG2(+) progenitor properties with synapse function.
  • To understand the physiological relevance of neuronal signaling to NG2(+) progenitors.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of recent research findings.
  • Integration of data on cellular and developmental properties of NG2(+) progenitors.
  • Analysis of functional attributes of synapses on NG2(+) cells.

Main Results:

  • Synaptic contacts are present on NG2(+) progenitors in all brain regions studied.
  • The functional properties of these synapses are being actively investigated.
  • Potential roles of these synapses are being explored in neural circuit physiology.

Conclusions:

  • NG2(+) progenitors receive synaptic input across the brain.
  • Synapses on NG2(+) progenitors may exhibit diverse developmental and functional roles.
  • These roles likely reflect the distinct functions of NG2(+) progenitors in different brain contexts.