About this Research Topic
Neurogenesis, the process of generating new neurons, primarily occurs in the hippocampus and subventricular zone of the adult brain. This process plays a crucial role in learning, memory, and overall cognitive function. As individuals age, a decline in neurogenesis has been observed, which correlates with cognitive decline, a hallmark of aging. The reduction in neurogenesis is thought to contribute significantly to the deterioration of cognitive abilities, such as memory, learning, and problem-solving skills, commonly seen in older adults.
One of the critical factors influencing age-related cognitive decline is the decreased proliferation of neural progenitor cells. Research has shown that the hippocampal neurogenic niche undergoes various age-associated changes, including reduced levels of neurotrophic factors, increased oxidative stress, and altered inflammatory responses. These changes hinder the survival and integration of new neurons into existing neural circuits, thereby impairing cognitive functions. Additionally, the aging process affects the systemic environment, which in turn influences neurogenesis. For instance, age-related alterations in blood-borne factors, such as increased levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and decreased levels of growth factors, negatively impact the neurogenic process.
Therefore, this Research Topic aims to provide a comprehensive collection of research that focus on understanding the mechanisms that are crucial for developing strategies to mitigate cognitive impairments. We welcome Original Research Articles, Reviews, Mini-Reviews, Systematic Reviews, Perspectives, Commentaries, Data notes, and technical notes, but are not limited to the following:
• Investigate the cellular and molecular mechanisms responsible for the reduction of neurogenesis with aging.
• Explore the role of epigenetic changes in regulating neurogenesis during aging, identifying key epigenetic markers and potential therapeutic targets to restore neurogenesis.
• Assess the relationship between reduced neurogenesis and synaptic plasticity in the aging brain.
• Study the genetic factors that influence the rate of neurogenesis and cognitive decline during aging.
One of the critical factors influencing age-related cognitive decline is the decreased proliferation of neural progenitor cells. Research has shown that the hippocampal neurogenic niche undergoes various age-associated changes, including reduced levels of neurotrophic factors, increased oxidative stress, and altered inflammatory responses. These changes hinder the survival and integration of new neurons into existing neural circuits, thereby impairing cognitive functions. Additionally, the aging process affects the systemic environment, which in turn influences neurogenesis. For instance, age-related alterations in blood-borne factors, such as increased levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and decreased levels of growth factors, negatively impact the neurogenic process.
Therefore, this Research Topic aims to provide a comprehensive collection of research that focus on understanding the mechanisms that are crucial for developing strategies to mitigate cognitive impairments. We welcome Original Research Articles, Reviews, Mini-Reviews, Systematic Reviews, Perspectives, Commentaries, Data notes, and technical notes, but are not limited to the following:
• Investigate the cellular and molecular mechanisms responsible for the reduction of neurogenesis with aging.
• Explore the role of epigenetic changes in regulating neurogenesis during aging, identifying key epigenetic markers and potential therapeutic targets to restore neurogenesis.
• Assess the relationship between reduced neurogenesis and synaptic plasticity in the aging brain.
• Study the genetic factors that influence the rate of neurogenesis and cognitive decline during aging.
Keywords: Neurogenesis, Neurological Disorder, Neurocognitive Aging, Cognitive Decline, Neural Progenitor Cells
Important Note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.
