The Wanderlust of Newborn Neocortical Interneurons

Abstract

For proper formation of the cerebral cortex, immature neurons must travel from their birthplace within the walls of the lateral ventricle to their final destinations throughout the brain. This process requires active migration over long distances and failure of neurons to properly migrate carries serious consequences for the organism. In humans, disruption of the genes that direct neuronal migration can cause severe mental retardation or even death (Gleeson and Walsh, 2000Go). Understanding the mechanisms for neuronal circuit formation will lead to a better understanding of basic design principles for brain architecture and the development of potential therapies for the treatment of brain disorders caused by aberrant migration.