Abstract

Proliferation and migration during adult neurogenesis are regulated by a microenvironment of signaling molecules originating from local vasculature, from cerebrospinal fluid produced by the choroid plexus, and from local supporting cells including astrocytes. Here, we focus on the function of OTX2 homeoprotein transcription factor in the mouse adult ventricular-subventricular zone (V-SVZ) which generates olfactory bulb neurons. We find that OTX2 secreted by choroid plexus is transferred to supporting cells of the V-SVZ and rostral migratory stream. Deletion of Otx2 in choroid plexus affects neuroblast migration and reduces the number of olfactory bulb newborn neurons. Adult neurogenesis was also decreased by expressing secreted single-chain antibodies to sequester OTX2 in the cerebrospinal fluid, demonstrating the importance of non-cell autonomous OTX2. We show that OTX2 activity modifies extracellular matrix components and signaling molecules produced by supporting astrocytes. Thus, we reveal a multi-level and non-cell autonomous role of a homeoprotein and reinforce the choroid plexus and astrocytes as key niche compartments affecting adult neurogenesis.\n\nSignificance StatementCerebrospinal fluid, local vasculature and non-neurogenic astrocytes are niche compartments that provide a microenvironment for regulating adult mouse neurogenesis. We show that OTX2 homeoprotein secreted by choroid plexus into the cerebrospinal fluid is transferred into non-neurogenic astrocytes of the ventricular-subventricular zone and rostral migratory stream where it regulates extracellular matrix and signaling factors. This non-cell-autonomous activity impacts the number of newborn neurons that integrate the olfactory bulb. Thus, we reveal a multi-level role for OTX2 and reinforce the choroid plexus as a key niche compartment affecting adult neurogenesis.