Significance of birth in the maintenance of quiescent neural stem cells. Published in Science Advances.

press release：https://www.nagoya-cu.ac.jp/english/research-news/202501230400/

Many vertebrates have transitioned between habitats from the deep sea to land and air. During this evolutionary process, their cellular physiology adapted by shifting their tissue stem cells into a more quiescent state. In mammals, “birth” mirrors this transition. While in utero, the fetus exists in amniotic fluid, and birth initiates its departure from this state. Kawase et al. discovered that birth-induced metabolic changes are essential for maintaining quiescence in neural stem cells. This study enhances our understanding of the pivotal role of birth in regulating tissue homeostasis and regenerative capacities.