[Hydrocephaly does not modify neuroblast chain migration in the subventricular zone (SVZ)].

BACKGROUND: Genetic mutations that affect cilia beating have shown that ependymal cilia not only contribute to the movement of cerebrospinal fluid, but also to direct migratory neuroblasts in the subventricular zone. These ciliary disturbances are associated with hydrocephalus. OBJECTIVE: To determine whether hydrocephalus per se alters migration and proliferation of neuroblasts in the subventricular zone, the largest niche of neural stem cells in the adult brain. METHODS: A vinyl acetate film was surgically inserted into the atrium of the Aqueduct of Sylvius of P60 Balb/C mice. Seven days later, we analyzed the ventricular dilatation, the number of proliferative neural progenitors and migratory neuroblasts, and the organization of neuroblast chains. RESULTS: This model of obstructive hydrocephalus increased the size of the lateral ventricles. No statistically significant differences in cell proliferation (controls 13 ± 2.2 vs. the hydrocephalic group 11 ± 2.9 cells per field) or in the number of neuroblasts (controls 32 ± 3.6 vs. the hydrocephalic group 27 ± 4.8 cells per field). No differences were observed in the migration pattern of neuroblasts. CONCLUSION: Sub-chronic hydrocephalus did not modify the proliferation of neural precursors or the migration pattern of neuroblasts in the subventricular zone. This suggests that only the CSF flow and the dissolved signaling proteins are the main regulators of the neuronal migration in vivo.