Neocortical neurogenesis and neuronal migration

The neocortex, the evolutionarily newest part of the cerebral cortex, controls nearly all aspects of behavior, including perception, language, and decision making. It contains an immense number of neurons that can be broadly divided into two groups, excitatory neurons and inhibitory interneurons. These neurons are predominantly produced through extensive progenitor cell divisions during the embryonic stages. Moreover, they are not randomly dispersed, but spatially organized into horizontal layers that are essential for neocortex function. The formation of this laminar structure requires exquisite control of neuronal migration from their birthplace to their final destination. Extensive research over the past decade has greatly advanced our understanding of the production and migration of both excitatory neurons and inhibitory interneurons in the developing neocortex. In this review, we aim to give an overview on the molecular and cellular processes of neocortical neurogenesis and neuronal migration. WIREs Dev Biol 2012, 2:443–459. doi: 10.1002/wdev.88 This article is categorized under: Gene Expression and Transcriptional Hierarchies > Cellular Differentiation Early Embryonic Development > Gastrulation and Neurulation Nervous System Development > Vertebrates: Regional Development