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Meninges: from protective membrane to stem cell niche.
Ilaria Decimo1, Guido Fumagalli, Valeria Berton
1Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Section of Pharmacology, University of Verona Italy.
American Journal of Stem Cells
|May 15, 2013
Summary
The meninges, brain coverings, are now understood to actively influence central nervous system (CNS) development and function. Recent findings reveal meningeal stem cells that respond to injury, highlighting their crucial role in neural tissue homeostasis.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Developmental Biology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Meninges traditionally viewed as protective brain coverings.
- Recent research reveals complex meningeal ultrastructure and function.
- Meninges extensively infiltrate the central nervous system (CNS).
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive review of meninges and their functional network with neural tissue.
- To highlight meningeal roles in embryonic cortical development.
- To elucidate meningeal anatomical distribution and trophic properties in adult CNS.
- To emphasize meninges as a potential stem cell niche.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on meningeal anatomy, development, and function.
- Analysis of studies on meningeal stem cell populations and neural precursors.
- Integration of findings on meningeal trophic factor secretion.
Main Results:
- Meninges are integral to CNS, penetrating neural tissue and forming perivascular spaces.
- Meninges are essential for normal corticogenesis and brain structure formation.
- Adult meninges secrete trophic factors (e.g., FGF2, SDF-1) supporting neural homeostasis.
- Meninges harbor stem cells with neural differentiation potential and injury-responsive precursors.
Conclusions:
- Meninges play multifaceted roles in CNS physiology and pathology throughout life.
- Meninges are crucial developmental components and contribute to adult neural tissue maintenance.
- Meninges represent a significant stem cell niche with potential for CNS repair and regeneration.
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