Ep. 4: Serotonin and Adult Neurogenesis

In this podcast, Connor Wander interviews Andrew Crowther, a fellow graduate student in the Song Lab at UNC Chapel Hill and a member of the Neuroscience curriculum. We cover Andrew’s research focus: serotonin’s effect on adult neurogenesis.  We also speculate a bit on other mechanisms of regulation of neurogenesis, and various functions of the hippocampus. Adult Neurogenesis Adult neurogenesis is the birth and development of new neurons in the developed brain.  This process occurs well into adulthood and helps us form new memories and adapt to new environments. Recently, exercise has been shown to increase adult neurogenesis in mice and other mammals. More adult neurogenesis may translate into more brain power. Dr. Juan Song’s lab at UNC Chapel Hill studies adult neurogenesis, and the different neurotransmitter systems that regulate it.  Various neurotransmitters and neuropeptide have been shown to change the rate of neurogenesis in different ways. Ask the Experts Song Lab website: songlab.web.unc.edu/ Andrew wrote a review on neurotransmitter-based regulation of neurogenesis with Dr. Song: Activity-dependent signaling mechanisms regulating adult hippocampal neural stem cells and their progeny   Any other questions?  Let us know!  We appreciate your feedback. You can now support the podcast at https://www.patreon.com/sfspodcast.  Many thanks to our past and present supporters!  Thanks to Plant Warrior for their support.  Use discount code SFS10 at checkout for 10% off your purchase of plant-based protein.