What Histological Changes are Associated with Altered Hippocampal Volume?
Histological changes in the hippocampus can provide insights into the underlying mechanisms of altered volume. These changes may include:
- Neuronal Loss: Reduction in the number of neurons, particularly in the CA1 region, is commonly observed in conditions like Alzheimer’s disease. - Dendritic Atrophy: Shrinkage or loss of dendritic spines can affect synaptic connectivity and contribute to reduced hippocampal volume. - Gliosis: Increased proliferation of glial cells, especially astrocytes and microglia, in response to injury or disease can also alter hippocampal architecture. - Neurogenesis: In the dentate gyrus, the process of neurogenesis, or the formation of new neurons, can influence hippocampal volume, potentially offering a target for therapeutic interventions.
