Evidence for Adult Neurogenesis
21 July 2025
A recent publication by the Frisén group in Science (PMID: 40608919; DOI: 10.1126/science.adu9575) has provided compelling evidence for the existence of proliferating neural progenitor cells in the adult human brain. This groundbreaking study utilized single-nucleus RNA sequencing and machine learning algorithms to identify these cells, which are involved in memory formation and mood regulation.
We are pleased to see iCNS co-PI Paul Lucassen (UvA) and iCNS researcher Evgenia Salta (NIN) contributing their perspectives on this important development. Both were interviewed by several media outlets, offering expert commentary on the implications of this research for our understanding of brain plasticity and mental health.
Evgenia Salta remarked, “We are able to find the full molecular profile of these cells. Now it seems that we have the full trajectory, for the first time, also in the adult human brain.”
Despite some skepticism regarding the prevalence and relevance of these cells, the study marks a significant step forward in understanding adult neurogenesis. The findings suggest that while neurogenesis in adults may be rare, it could still play a functional role in brain plasticity and cognitive health.
For more detailed insights, read the full publication in Science and explore the expert interviews linked below.