Transcriptional control of midbrain dopaminergic neuron development

SL Ang - 2006 - journals.biologists.com
SL Ang
2006journals.biologists.com
Although loss of midbrain dopaminergic neurons is associated with one of the most common
human neurological disorders, Parkinson's disease, little is known about the specification of
this neuronal subtype. Hence, the recent identification of major transcriptional determinants
regulating the development of these neurons has brought much excitement and
encouragement to this field. These new findings will help to elucidate the genetic program
that promotes the generation of midbrain dopaminergic neurons. Importantly, these …
Although loss of midbrain dopaminergic neurons is associated with one of the most common human neurological disorders, Parkinson's disease, little is known about the specification of this neuronal subtype. Hence, the recent identification of major transcriptional determinants regulating the development of these neurons has brought much excitement and encouragement to this field. These new findings will help to elucidate the genetic program that promotes the generation of midbrain dopaminergic neurons. Importantly, these discoveries will also significantly advance efforts to differentiate stem cells into midbrain dopaminergic neurons that can be used for therapeutic use in treating Parkinson's disease.
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