Neuronal Development and Schizophrenia: A Study of Doublecortin Expression
Author Information
Author(s): Fung Samantha J., Joshi Dipesh, Allen Katherine M., Sivagnanasundaram Sinthuja, Rothmond Debora A., Saunders Richard, Noble Pamela L., Webster Maree J., Shannon Weickert Cynthia
Primary Institution: Schizophrenia Research Institute, Sydney, Australia
Hypothesis
The recruitment of new, migrating neurons may contribute to postnatal cortical growth.
Conclusion
The study found a significant decline in doublecortin expression and white matter neuron density during infancy, suggesting that new neurons contribute to early postnatal cortical development.
Supporting Evidence
- Doublecortin expression declines significantly from neonates to adults.
- White matter neuron density decreases during early postnatal development.
- New neurons may play a role in the cognitive development associated with the prefrontal cortex.
Takeaway
The brain makes new neurons after birth, and this study shows that these new neurons help the brain grow during early life.
Methodology
The study analyzed doublecortin expression and neuron density in human and rhesus macaque brains using immunohistochemistry and quantitative PCR.
Potential Biases
Potential biases in sample selection and analysis methods could affect the results.
Limitations
The study's findings may not be generalizable beyond the specific age groups and conditions examined.
Participant Demographics
The human cohort included 37 schizophrenia patients and 37 matched controls, while the macaque cohort included 45 individuals aged 2 weeks to 12 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.00001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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