Activity-Dependent NPAS4 Expression and the Regulation of Gene Programs Underlying Plasticity in the Central Nervous System
Author
Maya-Vetencourt, José Fernando
Source
Issue
Vol. 2013, Issue 2013 (31 Dec. 2013), pp.1-12, 12 p.
Publisher
Hindawi Publishing Corporation
Publication Date
2013-08-18
Country of Publication
Egypt
No. of Pages
12
Main Subjects
Abstract EN
The capability of the brain to change functionally in response to sensory experience is most active during early stages of development but it decreases later in life when major alterations of neuronal network structures no longer take place in response to experience.
This view has been recently challenged by experimental strategies based on the enhancement of environmental stimulation levels, genetic manipulations, and pharmacological treatments, which all have demonstrated that the adult brain retains a degree of plasticity that allows for a rewiring of neuronal circuitries over the entire life course.
A hot spot in the field of neuronal plasticity centres on gene programs that underlie plastic phenomena in adulthood.
Here, I discuss the role of the recently discovered neuronal-specific and activity-dependent transcription factor NPAS4 as a critical mediator of plasticity in the nervous system.
A better understanding of how modifications in the connectivity of neuronal networks occur may shed light on the treatment of pathological conditions such as brain damage or disease in adult life, some of which were once considered untreatable.
American Psychological Association (APA)
Maya-Vetencourt, José Fernando. 2013. Activity-Dependent NPAS4 Expression and the Regulation of Gene Programs Underlying Plasticity in the Central Nervous System. Neural Plasticity،Vol. 2013, no. 2013, pp.1-12.
https://search.emarefa.net/detail/BIM-490288
Modern Language Association (MLA)
Maya-Vetencourt, José Fernando. Activity-Dependent NPAS4 Expression and the Regulation of Gene Programs Underlying Plasticity in the Central Nervous System. Neural Plasticity No. 2013 (2013), pp.1-12.
https://search.emarefa.net/detail/BIM-490288
American Medical Association (AMA)
Maya-Vetencourt, José Fernando. Activity-Dependent NPAS4 Expression and the Regulation of Gene Programs Underlying Plasticity in the Central Nervous System. Neural Plasticity. 2013. Vol. 2013, no. 2013, pp.1-12.
https://search.emarefa.net/detail/BIM-490288
Data Type
Journal Articles
Language
English
Notes
Includes bibliographical references
Record ID
BIM-490288