Engineering new neurons: In vivo reprogramming in the mammalian brain and spinal cord

Neurons in the brain and spinal cord typically don't regenerate after injury, but recent studies show that non-neuronal cells, especially glial cells, can be reprogrammed into new neurons. Researchers are exploring in vivo cell fate reprogramming as a way to understand the brain's plasticity and develop new treatments for neural injuries and diseases. This involves converting other cell types in the brain, such as astrocytes and NG2 glia, directly into neurons by introducing specific transcription factors.

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  Astrocytes, the most abundant glial cells in the CNS, can be reprogrammed into neurons in vivo using cell type-restricted promoters in viral vectors and genetic lineage-tracing mouse lines.
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  NG2 glia, or oligodendrocyte precursor cells, can also be reprogrammed into neurons by ectopic expression of transcription factors.
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  The microenvironment, including neural injury, regional identity, growth factors, and small molecules, significantly influences the reprogramming process and the resulting cell types.