BRAIN'S
STEM CELLS "EAVESDROP" TO FIND OUT WHEN TO ACT
Studies in
mice reveal how mood-altering drugs may affect brain stem cells
Working
with mice, Johns Hopkins researchers say they have figured out how stem cells
found in a part of the brain responsible for learning, memory and mood
regulation decide to remain dormant or create new brain cells. Apparently, the
stem cells “listen in” on the chemical communication among nearby neurons to
get an idea about what is stressing the system and when they need to act.