Cranial radiation therapy and damage to hippocampal neurogenesis

Dev Disabil Res Rev. 2008;14(3):238-42. doi: 10.1002/ddrr.26.

Abstract

Cranial radiation therapy is associated with a progressive decline in cognitive function, prominently memory function. Impairment of hippocampal neurogenesis is thought to be an important mechanism underlying this cognitive decline. Recent work has elucidated the mechanisms of radiation-induced failure of neurogenesis. Potential therapeutic interventions are emerging.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Animals
  • Antineoplastic Agents / adverse effects
  • Antineoplastic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Brain Damage, Chronic / etiology*
  • Brain Neoplasms / drug therapy
  • Brain Neoplasms / radiotherapy*
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Cognition Disorders / etiology*
  • Combined Modality Therapy
  • Cranial Irradiation / adverse effects*
  • Developmental Disabilities / etiology*
  • Hippocampus / radiation effects*
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Neurogenesis / radiation effects*
  • Radiation Injuries / etiology*
  • Survivors / psychology*
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents