Abstract
Approximately one hundred billion brain cells are produced from neural stem cells (NSCs). This phenomenon, i.e., neurogenesis, explosively occurs during fetal stages, but continues throughout the life because NSCs exist in certain regions of the brain such as the hippocampus. Neurogenesis is influenced by various genetic and environmental factors, and it also affects learning and memory. Conversely, decrease of neurogenesis seems to cause vulnerability for onset of mental diseases. We are evaluating this "neurogenesis theory" for etiology of mental diseases using rodent models, and trying to prevent/cure behavioral abnormality by increasing postnatal neurogenesis. Our approaches by treating animals with polyunsaturated fatty acids and raising animals in enriched environment can increase neurogenesis and reducing abnormal behavior. These findings are promising in future prevention and therapy for mental diseases related with decreased neurogenesis.
