Development and function of new neurons in the adult hippocampus: exploration of the key role played by Rnd2 – ReguNeuRho

The finding that new neurons are generated throughout life in the adult mammalian brain, especially in the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus, has opened novel avenues for brain repair. However a better understanding of the mechanisms that guide the generation and integration of new neurons into the adult environment is crucial to provide efficient therapies. In this context, our recent data highlight a critical role for Rnd2, a RhoGTPase family member, in the survival and maturation of new neurons into the adult hippocampus. We aim now at better defining the functions of Rnd2 in the different stages of adult hippocampal neurogenesis and determine whether they are specific to adult newborn neurons. We will also investigate the mechanims mediating Rnd2 action in these cells and explore whether Rnd2 is important for the brain functions regulated by adult-born hippocampal neurons such as memory encoding and mood regulation. To achieve these objectives, we will implement strategies of loss and gain of functions, mainly in vivo, and combine multiple techniques ranging from molecular and cellular biology to behavioral analyses, which is possible thanks to the competences of the different actors.
We hope to provide important clues to develop strategies promoting the integration of new neurons in the aged or diseased brain.