Figure 1.

A simplified scheme of intercellular communications within the neurogenic niche. The local microenvironment is established due to the activity of neuronal, astroglial, and endothelial cells that are able to release various molecules (growth factors, neurotransmitters, cytokines, gliotransmitters, metabolites) affecting cell fate within the niche. Abbreviations used: NSC—neural stem cell, NPC—neural progenitor cell, NB—neuroblast, IN—immature neuron, N—neuron, A—astrocyte, BMEC—brain microvessel endothelial cell, E/I—excitation-inhibition balance.