Postnatal Neural Stem Cells: Probing Their Competence for Cortical Repair

Abstract

There is growing evidence for a tentative cellular repair in the forebrain following perinatal injuries. In this review, we present the evidences and shortcomings in this regenerative attempt. We discuss recent progress in elucidating the origin, diversity, and competence of postnatal neural stem cells/progenitor cells. Finally, we propose new strategies to recruit postnatal progenitors to generate specific subtypes of cortical neurons or oligodendrocytes, thereby allowing the development of tailor-made approaches to treat perinatal brain injuries.

Keywords: competence; perinatal injury; progenitor lineage; regeneration; regionalization; subventricular zone.