miR-30c and semaphorin 3A determine adult neurogenesis by regulating proliferation and differentiation of stem cells in the subventricular zones of mouse

Objectives Mechanisms that regulate proliferation of adult neural stem cells are largely unknown. Here, we have investigated the role of microR-30c (miR-30c) and its target, semaphoring 3A (sema3A), in regulating adult neurogenesis and mechanisms underlying this process. Materials and methods In situ hybridization, immunofluorescence and quantitative real-time PCR were used to assess complementary expression patterns of miR-30c and sema3A in mice. Effects of miR-30c in the subventricular zone (SVZ) were examined by stereotaxic injection of up- and down-regulating lentiviruses. 5′-bromo-2′-deoxyuridine labelling was performed to investigate effects of miR-30c and sema3A on adult neurogenesis. Real-time cell assays, morphological analysis and cell cycle measurements were used to reveal the mechanisms by which miR-30c and sema3A regulate adult neurogenesis. Results Expression of miR-30c negatively correlated with that of sema3A in neurons, and levels of miR-30c and sema3A correlated positively with numbers of newborn cells in the SVZ and rostral migration stream. miR-30c and sema3A affected adult neurogenesis by regulating proliferation and differentiation, as well as cycles of stem cells in the SVZ. Conclusions miR-30c and sema3A regulate adult neurogenesis by controlling proliferation and differentiation of stem cells in the SVZ. This finding reveals a novel regulatory mechanism of adult neurogenesis.