Self-renewal of neurons or astrocytes in the adult brain is potentially very exciting. One of our goals is to determine the most effective signaling mechanisms to encourage these cells to reproduce and migrate to key brain sites where they can stimulate synapse formation and improve restoration of function. Few approaches take full advantage of this early golden opportunity, however. We have evidence that, to maximize functional outcome, pharmacological and growth factor interventions must be initiated soon after neural damage and combined precisely with rehabilitation procedures. Unfortunately, this window of opportunity is very short, lasting only a few days to a few weeks after injury.
Early indications are that remarkable enhancement of long term outcome can be achieved.
Overgrowth and pruning of dendrites in adult rats recovering from neocortical damage. MRI, brain iron, and experimental Parkinson's disease. A clinically relevant unilateral rat model of Parkinsonian akinesia. The essential role of behavioral experience. Use-dependent growth of pyramidal neurons after neocortex damage.