Exploring the role of the outer subventricular zone during cortical folding through a physics-based model

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Developmental Biology
• Computational Biology

Background:

• Cortical folding is a key feature of human brain complexity.
• The role of mechanical forces in cortical folding is increasingly recognized.
• The outer subventricular zone (OSVZ) is crucial for human cortex size and complexity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the influence of the OSVZ on cortical folding.
• To establish a computational model linking cellular processes to organ-scale development.
• To explore the formation of 3D patterns in human brain development.

Main Methods:

• Developed a multifield computational model coupling cell proliferation and migration with organ growth.
• Integrated an advection-diffusion model with the theory of finite growth.
• Validated the model using histological data from human fetal brains.

Main Results:

• The model successfully predicts 3D pattern formation during cortical development.
• Demonstrated the critical role of the OSVZ in generating cortical folds.
• Provided insights into the microscale-to-macroscale link in brain development.

Conclusions:

• The computational framework enhances understanding of human brain development.
• The model can help diagnose and treat neuronal disorders related to cortical malformations.
• Highlights the significance of the OSVZ in shaping brain structure.