A unique neurogenic niche in the adult hippocampus hosts neural-lineage stem cells that can persist throughout the lifespan in a wide range of adult mammals. Uncovering the functional role of these stem cells and how they interact with other cell types in the niche can provide insight in to the mechanisms that mediate hippocampal cognitive-emotional functions, as well as potential mechanisms for regenerating tissue in the adult brain. Recently, stem cell secreted proteins (i.e. the stem cell secretome) have emerged as influential players in tissue homeostasis. However, relatively little is known about either the content or the function of the secretome of endogenous neural stem cells and their progenitors (NSPCs) in the adult hippocampus. Our preliminary data reveal that adult hippocampal NSPCs may regulate their microenvironment through the production of the soluble protein, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). We find that NSPCs synthesize large quantities of VEGF in their hippocampal niche and that NSPC-derived VEGF is necessary for sustaining healthy hippocampal function. We propose to investigate the hypothesis that NSPCs support hippocampal function by direct actions of VEGF that suppress neuronal hyperexcitability, ultimately supporting memory function, as well as protecting it from injury. In Aim 1, we will use RNAsequencing as well as genetic code expansion coupled with biorthogonal non- canonical amino acid protein tagging to determine the specific local contributions of NSPCs to VEGF isoforms in the cell layers of the dentate gyrus subregion where these cells reside. In Aim 2, we will use transgenic knockdown and viral rescue models to investigate how dentate gyrus circuit activity is regulated specifically by NSPC-derived VEGF. In Aim 3, we will use transgenic knockdown and viral rescue models to determine how NSPC-VEGF influences hippocampal behavioral functions and vulnerability to excitotoxic injury. The completion of this work will establish a new functional dimension of endogenous NSPCs via their secretome, and advance understanding of how hippocampal health is actively maintained in a unique niche of the adult brain.

The persistence of neural stem cells in isolated niches of the adult brain offers a potentially unique source of plasticity and regeneration. Understanding how neural stem cells contribute to adult brain plasticity is critical to determining the health-relevance of these cell populations. The proposed experiments will dissect the functional role of neural stem cell secreted proteins in modulating the physiology and behavioral function of the adult hippocampus, a brain region which mediates essential memory and affect functions which are impaired in numerous brain diseases and injuries.