The Ferret As a Model System for Neocortex Development and Evolution

Overview

Journal Front Cell Dev Biol

Specialty Cell Biology

Date 2021 May 17

PMID 33996819

Citations 16

Authors

Carlotta Gilardi

Nereo Kalebic

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

The neocortex is the largest part of the cerebral cortex and a key structure involved in human behavior and cognition. Comparison of neocortex development across mammals reveals that the proliferative capacity of neural stem and progenitor cells and the length of the neurogenic period are essential for regulating neocortex size and complexity, which in turn are thought to be instrumental for the increased cognitive abilities in humans. The domesticated ferret, , is an important animal model in neurodevelopment for its complex postnatal cortical folding, its long period of forebrain development and its accessibility to genetic manipulation . Here, we discuss the molecular, cellular, and histological features that make this small gyrencephalic carnivore a suitable animal model to study the physiological and pathological mechanisms for the development of an expanded neocortex. We particularly focus on the mechanisms of neural stem cell proliferation, neuronal differentiation, cortical folding, visual system development, and neurodevelopmental pathologies. We further discuss the technological advances that have enabled the genetic manipulation of the ferret . Finally, we compare the features of neocortex development in the ferret with those of other model organisms.

Citing Articles

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Reconstructing human-specific regulatory functions in model systems.

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Ferret as a model system for studying the anatomy and function of the prefrontal cortex: A systematic review.

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Longitudinal MRI of the developing ferret brain reveals regional variations in timing and rate of growth.

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Shaping the brain: The emergence of cortical structure and folding.

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