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Neurogenesis in adult human
W Murrell1, G R Bushell, J Livesey
1School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, Griffith University, Nathan, OLD, Australia.
Neuroreport
|April 26, 1996
Summary
Adult human olfactory epithelium can generate new neurons (neurogenesis) in laboratory settings. This discovery opens avenues for studying neurological disorders like Alzheimer's disease.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cell Biology
- Human Physiology
Background:
- The adult human olfactory epithelium's capacity for neurogenesis is not fully understood.
- Previous research has not extensively explored in vitro neurogenesis in adult human olfactory tissues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate neurogenesis and neuronal differentiation in adult human olfactory epithelium cultured in vitro.
- To determine the age limit for neurogenesis in this tissue.
Main Methods:
- Olfactory epithelium samples were obtained from autopsies and biopsies.
- Tissues were cultured in serum-free medium.
- Basic fibroblast growth factor was used to induce differentiation.
- [3H]thymidine autoradiography confirmed neuronal birth.
Main Results:
- Cultured adult human olfactory epithelium demonstrated neurogenesis and neuronal differentiation.
- Differentiated cells expressed neuronal markers but not glial markers.
- Neurogenesis was observed in samples from individuals up to 72 years old.
Conclusions:
- The adult human olfactory epithelium retains the capacity for neurogenesis and neuronal differentiation.
- This in vitro model allows for the study of neuronal development in aging individuals.
- The findings have implications for investigating neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders.