Engineering new neurons: in vivo reprogramming in mammalian brain and spinal cord

Neurons are postmitotic. Once lost because of injury or degeneration, they do not regenerate in most regions of the mammalian central nervous system. Recent advancements nevertheless clearly reveal that new neurons can be reprogrammed from non-neuronal cells, especially glial cells, in the adult mammalian brain and spinal cord. Here, we give a brief overview concerning cell fate reprogramming in vivo and then focus on the underlying molecular and cellular mechanisms. Specifically, we critically review the cellular sources and the reprogramming factors for in vivo neuronal conversion. Influences of environmental cues and the challenges ahead are also discussed. The ability of inducing new neurons from an abundant and broadly distributed non-neuronal cell source brings new perspectives regarding regeneration-based therapies for traumatic brain and spinal cord injuries and degenerative diseases.