Neurogenesis promotion

Neurogenesis promotion refers to the enhancement of new neuron formation from neural stem cells in the brain, encompassing proliferation, differentiation, and integration of neurons into neural circuits. This process is regulated by numerous signaling pathways (FGF, EGF, VEGF, insulin-like growth factors, Wnt, Notch, Shh, MAPK/ERK) and controlled by intrinsic factors such as transcription factors (e.g., Pax6, Ngn2, Ascl1). Drugs targeting these pathways can stimulate neurogenesis and hold potential for treating neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric diseases, but "neurogenesis promotion" itself is not a specific molecule, receptor, or drug target. If a specific molecule, receptor, or gene regulating neurogenesis is being sought as a target, examples include fibroblast growth factor receptor, epidermal growth factor receptor, vascular endothelial growth factor receptor, and insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor, among others.

Other names

Neurogenesis inductionStimulation of neurogenesisEnhancement of adult neurogenesis

Mechanisms reported for drugs promoting neurogenesis include: Growth factor signaling (FGF, EGF, VEGF pathways); Inhibition of specific kinases (ex: MEK1/2 by trametinib); Serotonin reuptake inhibition (antidepressants); Modulation of neurotrophic factors; Wnt signaling activation; Induction of cell cycle regulators and pro-neural genes (e.g., Myc, Jun, Neurog2).