The spelling of the word "neurogeny" is derived from its pronunciation which is /n(j)ʊˈrɒdʒəni/. The first syllable 'neuro' is pronounced as /n(j)ʊərəʊ/ with a schwa sound in the middle. The second syllable 'geny' is pronounced as /ˈdʒɛni/ with a soft 'g'. The word "neurogeny" refers to the process of generating neurons in the nervous system. It is a crucial process that is responsible for the functioning and development of the central nervous system.
Neurogeny refers to the process of the formation and development of new neurons, also known as nerve cells, within the central nervous system (CNS) or the peripheral nervous system (PNS) of an organism. It involves the generation of new neurons from neural stem cells or progenitor cells present in certain regions of the brain or spinal cord.
During neurogeny, neural stem cells undergo proliferation and differentiation, giving rise to committed progenitor cells that further develop into specific types of neurons. This process is crucial for various aspects of brain development, such as neuronal circuitry formation, synaptic plasticity, and functional integration of new neurons into existing neural networks.
Neurogeny is especially prominent during embryonic and early postnatal stages when the brain undergoes significant growth and maturation. However, it was long believed that neurogeny largely ceases in adulthood. However, recent research has demonstrated the presence of neurogenic niches, such as the subventricular zone and the dentate gyrus, within the adult brain, suggesting that neurogenesis might continue throughout life, albeit at a much lower rate.
The study of neurogeny has gained increased attention due to its potential implications for brain repair and regeneration. Understanding and manipulating the mechanisms underlying neurogeny may hold promise for developing therapies to treat neurological conditions, such as neurodegenerative diseases, stroke, and traumatic brain injuries, by stimulating the regeneration of damaged neurons.
The word "neurogeny" is derived from two roots: "neuro" and "geny".
1. "Neuro" comes from the Greek word "neuron", which means "nerve" or "sinew". It is commonly used in the context of the nervous system.
2. "Geny" is derived from the Greek word "genesis", which means "origin" or "birth".
Thus, when combined, "neurogeny" refers to the origin or development of nerve cells or neurons.