Decision making during interneuron migration in the developing cerebral cortex

Trends Cell Biol. 2014 Jun;24(6):342-51. doi: 10.1016/j.tcb.2013.12.001. Epub 2014 Jan 2.

Abstract

Appropriate interneuron migration and distribution is essential for the construction of functional neuronal circuitry and the maintenance of excitatory/inhibitory balance in the brain. Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)ergic interneurons originating from the ventral telencephalon choreograph a complex pattern of migration to reach their target destinations within the developing brain. This review examines the cellular and molecular underpinnings of the major decision-making steps involved in this process of oriental navigation of cortical interneurons.

Keywords: cerebral cortex; interneurons; laminar organization; migration; neural circuitry.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Movement*
  • Cerebral Cortex / cytology
  • Cerebral Cortex / growth & development*
  • Humans
  • Interneurons / cytology*
  • gamma-Aminobutyric Acid / metabolism

Substances

  • gamma-Aminobutyric Acid