Functions of hydrodynamic forces in neurogenesis

Even in adults, new brain cells continue to be born. Dr. Alice Meunier’s creative method uses both biology and hydrodynamics to study the environment of these neurons-to-be. The coordinated movement of hair-like structures on the surface of neighboring cells circulates fluid in the brain and allows pro-growth molecules to wash over their targets. Understanding how these hair-like structures orient their beating is necessary if, one day, we hope to replace neurons in patients with neurodegenerative disease.