Neuropoiesis

Neuropoiesis is the process by which conditionally non-specific cells, classically neural stem cells, differentiate into neurons or glia (not microglia which are proposed to have a monocytic or macrophage-like origin).

The mechanisms involved are numerous and not completely understood. Research into the various mechanisms, some of which may not even be found yet, is very active and central to the neuroscience community. Neuropoiesis has far-reaching implications into areas including: neurodegeneration, neuro-oncology, traumatic brain injury, nervous ischemia, and nervous system repair. The most recognized initial sites of neuropoiesis ending with neurons in adults are the subventricular zone, the thin layer of cells just beneath the surface of the lateral ventricles of the brain, and the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus. Interestingly, a vast body of literature to date suggests that the adult stem cells undergoing neuropoiesis begin with a common astrocytic phenotype; somehow this may be changed to suit the end goal: neuron, astrocyte, oligodendrocyte, or ependymal cells.