New neurons and new memories: how does adult hippocampal neurogenesis affect learning and memory?

TitleNew neurons and new memories: how does adult hippocampal neurogenesis affect learning and memory?
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2010
AuthorsDeng W, Aimone JB, Gage FH
JournalNat Rev Neurosci
Volume11
Issue5
Pagination339-50
Date Published2010 May
ISSN1471-0048
KeywordsAdult Stem Cells, Animals, Hippocampus, Humans, Learning, Memory, Models, Neurological, Neurogenesis, Neurons
Abstract

The integration of adult-born neurons into the circuitry of the adult hippocampus suggests an important role for adult hippocampal neurogenesis in learning and memory, but its specific function in these processes has remained elusive. In this article, we summarize recent progress in this area, including advances based on behavioural studies and insights provided by computational modelling. Increasingly, evidence suggests that newborn neurons might be involved in hippocampal functions that are particularly dependent on the dentate gyrus, such as pattern separation. Furthermore, newborn neurons at different maturation stages may make distinct contributions to learning and memory. In particular, computational studies suggest that, before newborn neurons are fully mature, they might function as a pattern integrator by introducing a degree of similarity to the encoding of events that occur closely in time.

DOI10.1038/nrn2822
Alternate JournalNat. Rev. Neurosci.
PubMed ID20354534
PubMed Central IDPMC2886712
Grant ListAG-020938 / AG / NIA NIH HHS / United States
NS-050217 / NS / NINDS NIH HHS / United States
R01 AG020938 / AG / NIA NIH HHS / United States
R01 AG020938-05 / AG / NIA NIH HHS / United States
R01 NS050217 / NS / NINDS NIH HHS / United States
R01 NS050217-05 / NS / NINDS NIH HHS / United States
Category: 
IRG Funded
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