Strategies and mechanisms of neuronal reprogramming

Yue Wan; Yan Ding

doi:10.1016/j.brainresbull.2023.110661

Strategies and mechanisms of neuronal reprogramming

Brain Res Bull. 2023 Jul:199:110661. doi: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2023.110661. Epub 2023 May 4.

Authors

Yue Wan¹, Yan Ding²

Affiliations

¹ Department of Histology and Embryology, West China School of Preclinical and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
² Department of Histology and Embryology, West China School of Preclinical and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China. Electronic address: dingyan@scu.edu.cn.

PMID: 37149266
DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2023.110661

Abstract

Traumatic injury and neurodegenerative diseases of the central nervous system (CNS) are difficult to treat due to the poorly regenerative nature of neurons. Engrafting neural stem cells into the CNS is a classic approach for neuroregeneration. Despite great advances, stem cell therapy still faces the challenges of overcoming immunorejection and achieving functional integration. Neuronal reprogramming, a recent innovation, converts endogenous non-neuronal cells (e.g., glial cells) into mature neurons in the adult mammalian CNS. In this review, we summarize the progress of neuronal reprogramming research, mainly focusing on strategies and mechanisms of reprogramming. Furthermore, we highlight the advantages of neuronal reprogramming and outline related challenges. Although the significant development has been made in this field, several findings are controversial. Even so, neuronal reprogramming, especially in vivo reprogramming, is expected to become an effective treatment for CNS neurodegenerative diseases.

Keywords: Astrocyte; Central nervous system neurodegenerative disease; In vivo reprogramming; Neuron; Neuronal reprogramming.

Publication types

Review
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

Animals
Central Nervous System
Mammals
Neural Stem Cells*
Neurodegenerative Diseases* / therapy
Neuroglia
Neurons