Neuroscientists at the Queensland Brain Institute (QBI) have uncovered "a fundamental component" of the brain's regulation of cognitive function.

For the first time, researchers have discovered how new nerve cells are formed in the hippocampus region of the brain, an area associated with learning and memory, presenting potential insight into the prevention of neurodegenerative conditions, such as Alzheimer's.

Commenting on his findings, published in the Journal of Neuroscience, QBI director professor Perry Bartlett said: "Surprisingly, studies have so far failed to identify a resident stem cell population in the hippocampus that's capable of providing the renewable source of these essential nerve cells."

Together with his research colleague Dr Tara Walker, Professor Bartlett was able to identify the resident stem cell in the hippocampus and how it can be activated to produce new neurons.

Dr Walker explained: "These significant advances in determining the molecular regulation of nerve production will also have a major impact on our understanding of more complex areas such as behaviour, cognition, neurological disease and mental illness."

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