Neural regeneration and repair

An accumulating body of evidence is overturning old doctrines to show that the production of new neurons and oligodendrocytes in both the immature and mature nervous system play a major role in how the mammalian nervous system learns, adapts to a changing environment, and responds to damage or disease. Understanding the mechanisms that regulate stem cell function in these largely post-mitotic tissues will provide the basis for the development of new therapeutic approaches to address common conditions affecting large segments of the population.