Reviewing neurogenesis, aging and disease

Lazarov and colleagues review the evidence that a reduction in neurogenesis underlies aging-related cognitive deficits and impairments. The molecular and cellular alterations associated with impaired neurogenesis in the aging brain are discussed. Because factors such as exercise, environmental enrichment and dietary restriction enhance neurogenesis, and protect against age-related cognitive decline, they suggest that knowledge of the underlying signaling pathways could lead to novel therapeutic strategies for preserving brain function.
Lazarov O et al., When neurogenesis encounters aging and disease. Trends in Neurosciences 33: 569-579 (2010).
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20961627