Brain's stem cells 'eavesdrop' to find out when to act
Monday, August 6, 2012 - 10:20
in Biology & Nature
Working with mice, researchers say they have figured out how stem cells found in a part of the brain responsible for learning, memory and mood regulation decide to remain dormant or create new brain cells. Apparently, the stem cells “listen in” on the chemical communication among nearby neurons to get an idea about what is stressing the system and when they need to act.