AMAZING PAPERS in NEUROSCIENCE: Teaching Neurodevelopment Through the Discovery of Adult Neurogenesis

Neurogenesis is a critical process in neurodevelopment, contributing to the formation and function of the central nervous system (CNS). Historically, neurogenesis was thought to occur only during embryonic development. However, Eriksson et al. (1998) conducted the first study to confirm neurogenic regions within the adult human brain, using postmortem brain tissue to establish the presence of adult neurogenesis. This study identified adult neurogenesis to be present specifically within the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus, marking a groundbreaking advancement in neurodevelopmental research. The findings from this study highlight the significance of adult neurogenesis, which is now implicated in learning, memory, and in the understanding of neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s Disease. Integrating this study into undergraduate education introduces students to a pivotal moment in the history of neurodevelopmental research, highlighting its lasting impact on adult neurogenesis research. The study’s manageable length, use of immunofluorescent techniques, and relevance to both basic and clinical neuroscience make it an ideal resource for undergraduate education. Students can develop their skills in critical thinking, scientific literacy, and appreciation of methodological innovation in neuroscience — all while learning and deepening their understanding of the importance of neurodevelopment.