6533b838fe1ef96bd12a448e

RESEARCH PRODUCT

Cajal–Retzius and subplate cells: transient cortical neurons and circuits with long-term impact

subject

description

Abstract The laminar and columnar organization of the mature cerebral cortex is determined by a variety of early developmental processes. Two distinct populations of early generated neurons play important roles in corticogenesis. Cajal–Retzius neurons, located in the marginal zone (later layer 1), control the formation of neocortical layers by releasing the extracellular matrix protein reelin, which serves as a guiding signal for migrating neurons. Subplate neurons in the lower neocortical layer play an active role in axonal pathfinding of thalamocortical connections and in transient synaptic circuits, influence early cortical plasticity and the maturation of the columnar architecture. Both neuronal cell populations serve as transient synaptic targets and disappear to a large extent during further development. Genetic mutations and endogenous or exogenous harmful events during early development may alter their integration into early cortical circuits or may lead to their preservation into adulthood, which may contribute to pathophysiological activity and long-term neuronal deficits.