Neuronal migration into injured tissue: mechanisms and therapeutic strategies for brain regeneration

Neuronal migration is a crucial process not only for brain development but also for neural regeneration after injury. It has been reported that some new neurons generated in the ventricular-subventricular zone (V-SVZ) migrate toward tissue injured by ischemic stroke and other forms of brain damage. These migrating neurons can partially compensate for lost neurons and contribute to functional recovery, including improvements in motor function. Therefore, understanding the mechanisms that regulate neuronal migration is expected to facilitate the development of novel therapeutic strategies that enhance endogenous neural regeneration after brain injury. In this review, we discuss the migratory mechanisms of new neurons generated in the V-SVZ and summarize current insights into strategies aimed at promoting neuronal migration and neuronal replacement in the injured brain.