Abstract
A prolonged developmental timeline for GABA (γ-aminobutyric acid)-expressing inhibitory neurons (GABAergic interneurons) is an amplified trait in larger, gyrencephalic animals. In several species, the generation, migration, and maturation of interneurons take place over several months, in some cases persisting after birth. The late integration of GABAergic interneurons occurs in a region-specific pattern, especially during the early postnatal period. These changes can contribute to the formation of functional connectivity and plasticity, especially in the cortical regions responsible for higher cognitive tasks. In this review, we discuss GABAergic interneuron development in the late gestational and postnatal forebrain. We propose the protracted development of interneurons at each stage (neurogenesis, neuronal migration, and network integration), as a mechanism for increased complexity and cognitive flexibility in larger, gyrencephalic brains. This developmental feature of interneurons also provides an avenue for environmental influences to shape neural circuit formation.
Highlights
GABAergic inhibitory neurons represent approximately 20% of the neuronal population in the mammalian brain but have great diversity in origin, composition, and function [1,2]
We review the postnatal incorporation of GABAergic interneurons into the forebrain of gyrencephalic animals via “sustained” neurogenesis, migration, and potential latent sources of GABAergic interneurons
Considering that the epigenetic regulators are involved in the neurogenesis of GABAergic interneurons during early development, these inhibitors could potentially be an initial treatment for neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) targeting GABAergic interneurons
Summary
GABAergic inhibitory neurons (interneurons) represent approximately 20% of the neuronal population in the mammalian brain but have great diversity in origin, composition, and function [1,2]. While the extended timeline for the production and development of interneurons is observed across many species [11], the protracted nature of these stages is amplified in larger, gyrencephalic brains [12] Extending these processes could underlie the expansion and unique composition of interneurons observed in the brains of species such as macaque monkeys and humans [13,14,15]. We review the postnatal incorporation of GABAergic interneurons into the forebrain of gyrencephalic animals via “sustained” neurogenesis, migration, and potential latent sources of GABAergic interneurons With this lens, we discuss the molecular mechanisms underlying these expanded stages and how disruption could be reflected in pathological conditions
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
