VCAM1 Labels a Subpopulation of Neural Stem Cells in the Adult Hippocampus and Contributes to Spatial Memory

Stem Cell Reports, 2020 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.stemcr.2020.05.012 · Published: June 9, 2020

Neurology Regenerative Medicine & Stem Cells

Simple Explanation

The hippocampus is a region in the brain where new neurons are generated throughout life. Neural stem cells (NSCs) in the hippocampus are responsible for this neurogenesis. The study focuses on identifying specific markers for NSCs, particularly quiescent NSCs (qNSCs), which are less active. The researchers identified VCAM1, a cell surface molecule, as a marker for a subpopulation of NSCs in the adult mouse hippocampus. They found that VCAM1-expressing NSCs are mostly quiescent and can differentiate into neurons and astrocytes. The study also investigated the role of VCAM1 in spatial learning and memory. They found that depleting VCAM1 during embryonic or adult stages impaired spatial learning and memory in mice, along with a reduction in NSCs in the brain.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Adult WT mice, EMX1-Cre; VCAM1fl/fl, Nestin-CreERT2; VCAM1fl/fl

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
VCAM1 is expressed on the cell surface of qNSCs in the adult hippocampus.
2
VCAM1-expressing cells are multipotent and can differentiate into neurons and astrocytes.
3
Depletion of VCAM1 impairs spatial learning and memory and reduces the number of NSCs in the subgranular zone.

Research Summary

The study identifies vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (VCAM1) as a cell surface marker for a previously unrecognized subpopulation of neural stem cells (NSCs) in the adult mouse hippocampus. VCAM1-expressing NSCs are largely quiescent and capable of generating neurons and astrocytes. Depletion of Vcam1 during the embryonic or adult stage impaired spatial learning and memory in mice, accompanied by a reduced number of radial glial-like cells and proliferating NSCs in the subgranular zone of Vcam1 knockout mice.

Practical Implications

Identification of qNSC marker

VCAM1 can be used as a marker to identify and isolate quiescent neural stem cells in the adult hippocampus.

Understanding NSC function

The study enhances the understanding of the role of VCAM1 in neural stem cell quiescence, differentiation, and spatial learning and memory.

Potential therapeutic target

VCAM1 could be a potential therapeutic target for interventions aimed at improving spatial learning and memory.

Study Limitations

1
The precise mechanisms by which VCAM1 regulates NSC quiescence and differentiation are not fully elucidated.
2
The study primarily focuses on the role of VCAM1 in spatial learning and memory; its potential involvement in other cognitive functions is not explored.
3
The reasons for GFP persistence in some differentiated neurons expressing VCAM1 need further clarification.

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