Locomotion dependent neuron-glia interactions control neurogenesis and regeneration in the adult zebraﬁsh spinal cord

Nature Communications, 2021 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-021-25052-1 · Published: August 13, 2021

Regenerative Medicine Neurology Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

Physical exercise can stimulate the growth of new nerve cells in adult zebraﬁsh. This study shows that movement-related nerve signals, specifically cholinergic signals, activate stem cells in the spinal cord to create new neurons. GABA, another neurotransmitter, normally keeps these stem cells quiet. However, during training, the effect of GABA decreases, allowing the stem cells to activate and generate new neurons. By manipulating cholinergic and GABAergic signals, the study shows enhanced recovery after spinal cord injury, suggesting that these signals play a crucial role in nerve regeneration.

Study Duration

6 Weeks

Participants

343 adult zebraﬁsh

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Physical activity induces animal growth and proliferation in the spinal cord.
2
Spinal locomotor V2a-INs contribute cholinergic inputs to NSPCs.
3
Cholinergic and GABAergic receptors control the NSPCs’ proliferation in an opposing manner.

Research Summary

This study reveals how physical activity regulates the creation of new nerve cells in adult zebraﬁsh spinal cords through the interaction of two neurotransmitters: acetylcholine (ACh) and GABA. The study found that during locomotion, V2a interneurons release ACh, which stimulates neural stem/progenitor cells (NSPCs) to proliferate and create new neurons. In contrast, GABA normally keeps NSPCs inactive, but its effect is reduced during training, allowing neurogenesis to occur. Manipulating these neurotransmitter signals can also promote recovery after spinal cord injury.

Practical Implications

Therapeutic potential for spinal cord injury

Manipulating cholinergic and GABAergic signaling could promote neuronal regeneration and functional recovery after spinal cord injury.

Understanding exercise-induced neurogenesis

The study provides insights into the mechanisms by which physical activity promotes neurogenesis, which could have implications for understanding and treating neurological disorders.

Role of V2a interneurons

Highlights a non-motor/non-neuronal function for the CPG, demonstrating an essential link between locomotor network activity and spinal cord neurogenesis.

Study Limitations

1
The study is conducted in zebraﬁsh, and the results may not be directly translatable to mammals.
2
The exact mechanisms of adaptation within the spinal cord after training are unclear.
3
The extent of physiological relevance between the direct and indirect communication in modulating the NSPC activity after training requires further investigation.

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