Subventricular zone

Subventricular zone (SVZ) is one of the most important regions in the brain where neurogenesis occurs. It is located in both hemispheres of the lateral walls of the lateral ventricles. The SVZ is composed of four layers of cells: ependymal cells, a gap containing migrating neuroblasts, astrocytic ribbon, and a transitional zone into the striatum.

Structure

The SVZ is a layered structure that is found in the walls of the lateral ventricles. It is composed of four layers:

1. Ependymal layer: This is the most ventricular layer and is composed of ependymal cells.
2. Gap layer: This layer contains migrating neuroblasts.
3. Astrocytic ribbon: This layer contains astrocytes, which are a type of glial cell.
4. Transitional zone: This is the most lateral layer and transitions into the striatum.

Function

The SVZ is a site of neurogenesis in the adult mammalian brain. It produces neuroblasts which migrate to the olfactory bulb and differentiate into interneurons. The SVZ also contains a population of astrocytes which can generate both neurons and oligodendrocytes.

Clinical significance

Alterations in the SVZ have been associated with a variety of neurological disorders, including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depressive disorder. Additionally, the SVZ has been implicated in the pathogenesis of certain types of brain tumors, including glioblastoma.

See also

• Neurogenesis
• Olfactory bulb
• Glioblastoma

References

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Subventricular_zone

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  Human subventricular zone
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  Autoradiography of a brain slice from an embryonal rat