Neural stem cells persist to generate new neurons in the hippocampus of adult and aged human brain - Fiction or accurate?

Adult neurogenesis, comprising the generation, differentiation and integration of new neurons in the mature brain, has emerged as a dynamic area of research over decades. The discovery of adult neurogenesis was a paradigm shift to comprehend mechanisms underlying brain plasticity, cognitive function, and neurological disorders. This review deliberates significant findings from articles published over four decades on adult neurogenesis, highlighting key milestones, methodological advances, and controversies that have shaped our comprehension of the phenomenon of adult neurogenesis.

The Relationship Between COVID-19 and the Development of Depression: Implications on Mental Health.

Initially, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the virus responsible for coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19), was predominantly considered to primarily affect the respiratory system. However, later studies revealed that it also affects brain function through its ability to bind to the angiotensin-converting enzyme type 2 (ACE2) receptors expressed on neural cells. Our study involved a comprehensive review of literature aiming to investigate the relationship between COVID-19 and the development of depression.

Further validation of the efficacy of mesenchymal stem cell infusions for reducing mortality in COVID-19 patients with ARDS.

Recent double-blind, randomized, controlled trials reported that human umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) infusions in COVID-19 patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) could diminish cytokine storm and lung damage. While these outcomes are significant, additional phase II/III trials are required to validate the efficacy of MSCs to improve the survival of COVID-19 patients with ARDS. Future studies also need to assess the efficacy of MSCs to prevent long COVID.

Pediatric Stroke: Overview and Recent Updates.

Stroke can occur at any age or stage in life. Although it is commonly thought of as a disease amongst the elderly, it is important to highlight the fact that it also affects infants and children. In both populations, strokes have a high rate of morbidity and mortality.