Developmental Dynamics of the Rabbit Cerebellum During Fetal Maturation With Insights into the Role of Radial Glia in Neuronal Development

Abstract

This study examines the development of the rabbit cerebellum from the 10th day postconception to full-term fetal age, with a particular focus on the role of radial glial cells in the differentiation of cerebellar neurons. A total of 35 embryonic samples were meticulously dissected and microscopically analyzed. On embryonic day (ED) 12, cerebellar primordia, consisting of the ventricular neuroepithelium and rhombic lip, were observed. By ED16, significant neuronal cell proliferation and migration in both the radial and tangential directions were noted. On ED 20, lamination processes began, forming the external granular layer (EGL) and Purkinje cell plate (PCP) with the support of radial glial cells. By ED 25, the cerebellar cortex had developed three distinct layers: the EGL, PCP, and the prospective molecular layer (PML), with radial glial cells localized in the PCP. Differentiation continued, and upon ED30, a new cortical layer, the internal granular layer, was evident. Additionally, the gradual replacement of nestin by glial fibrillary acidic protein marked the differentiation of radial glia into Bergmann glia at ED 25 and ED 30. β-III tubulin, a marker of differentiated neurons, was detected in the inner layer of EGL and PCP during these stages. In conclusion, this study highlights the pivotal role of radial glial cells in the layered organization and neuronal differentiation of the developing rabbit cerebellum. The developmental trajectory observed provides valuable insights into cerebellar morphogenesis and supports the relevance of the rabbit model for exploring neurodevelopmental processes.