Growth and folding of the mammalian cerebral cortex: from molecules to malformations.

Bibliographic Collection: 
MOCA Reference, APE
Publication Type: Journal Article
Authors: Sun, Tao; Hevner, Robert F
Year of Publication: 2014
Journal: Nat Rev Neurosci
Volume: 15
Issue: 4
Pagination: 217-32
Date Published: 04/2014
Publication Language: eng
ISSN: 1471-0048
Keywords: Animals, Biological Evolution, Cerebral Cortex, Humans, Neural Stem Cells
Abstract:

The size and extent of folding of the mammalian cerebral cortex are important factors that influence a species' cognitive abilities and sensorimotor skills. Studies in various animal models and in humans have provided insight into the mechanisms that regulate cortical growth and folding. Both protein-coding genes and microRNAs control cortical size, and recent progress in characterizing basal progenitor cells and the genes that regulate their proliferation has contributed to our understanding of cortical folding. Neurological disorders linked to disruptions in cortical growth and folding have been associated with novel neurogenetic mechanisms and aberrant signalling pathways, and these findings have changed concepts of brain evolution and may lead to new medical treatments for certain disorders.

DOI: 10.1038/nrn3707
Alternate Journal: Nat. Rev. Neurosci.