Folic Acid Metabolism and Its Impact on Neurogenesis: Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Potential

Folic acid (FA), a vital water-soluble B vitamin, is indispensable for the development and maintenance of the nervous system. By modulating one-carbon metabolism, FA critically influences DNA and RNA synthesis, methylation reactions, and cell division, thereby profoundly affecting neurogenesis. Neurogenesis, encompassing the proliferation, differentiation, and maturation of neural stem cells, is tightly regulated by FA through its role in DNA synthesis and methylation. Impaired neurogenesis is implicated in various neurological disorders, highlighting its critical role in cognitive function, brain homeostasis, and neural repair. Recent advances have elucidated the intricate link between FA metabolism and neurogenesis, revealing potential therapeutic targets. Here, we provide a comprehensive review of the molecular mechanisms underlying FA's regulation of neurogenesis, focusing on its impact on epigenetic regulation and signaling pathways. We also discuss the interplay between folate metabolism, neurogenesis, and systemic diseases, emphasizing the translational potential of targeting FA metabolism in neurological disorders. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for advancing fundamental neuroscience and developing novel therapeutic strategies for neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative diseases. Future research should focus on elucidating the specific molecular pathways and potential therapeutic applications of FA in neurogenesis.