Mechanisms underlying the formation of the cerebral cortex of mice and ferrets

Neuronal Mechanism for Critical Period Unit (Yazaki-Sugiyama Unit) would like to invite you to a seminar by Prof. Hiroshi Kawasaki from Graduate School of Medicine, Kanazawa University.

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Date: Thursday, April 20, 2017

Time: 10:00-11:00

Venue: C016, Level C, Lab 1

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Speaker:
Prof. Hiroshi Kawasaki, Graduate School of Medicine, Kanazawa University

Title:
Mechanisms underlying the formation of the cerebral cortex of mice and ferrets

Abstract:
The ferret, a carnivore, has large and complicated brains compared with the rodent. For example, ferrets have folds on the cerebral cortex (i.e. the gyrus and the sulcus), whereas mice do not have. To investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying cortical folding, we recently developed a genetic manipulation technique for the cerebral cortex of ferrets using in utero electroporation. Using our technique, we examined the role of the Tbr2 transcription factor, which is expressed in neural progenitors of the subventricular zone (SVZ). When Tbr2 was suppressed, we found that the number of SVZ progenitors was markedly reduced and that cortical folding was impaired. Interestingly, upper layers were more reduced than lower layers, suggesting the ratio between upper layers and lower layers affects cortical folding. In addition to reducing cortical folding, we found that introduction of fibroblast growth factors resulted in polymicrogyria, in which extra folds were made. Pax6-positive cells and Tbr2-positive cells were increased, and upper layers were preferentially increased. Our findings provide in vivo data about the mechanisms of cortical folding in gyrencephalic mammals.

Host:
Assistant Prof. Yazaki-Sugiyama

We hope to see many of you at the seminar.