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Neural Stem Cells
Articles tagged with Neural Stem Cells
Scripps research scientists find nerve cell activity drains stem cell pool in developing brain
Researchers found that nerve cell activity regulates balance between stem cells and mature nerve cells in the developing brain. The study suggests that abnormal brain activity may have long-lasting effects on brain development and could lead to new therapies for neurodegenerative diseases.
Discovery of key pathway interaction may lead to therapies that aid brain growth and repair
The discovery of the interaction between two cellular signaling pathways may lead to therapies that aid brain growth and repair in children and adults. Researchers have found a critical step toward understanding the molecular networks regulating neural stem cells.
Neuralstem stem cells survive and differentiate into neurons in rats with stroke
Neuralstem's spinal cord stem cells survive and differentiate into neurons in rat brains affected by stroke, leading to improved motor skill and strength measurements. The study shows significant promise for treating post-stroke symptoms and paralysis.
Physical environment influences stem cell development
Researchers at Hebrew University develop theoretical model and conduct experiments to understand how stem cells differentiate based on their surroundings' rigidity. The study reveals elongated, muscle-like fibers in cells on rigid supports, differing from brain and bone cell structures on softer or harder substrates.
Live imaging puts new light on stem cell division
A team of researchers at the University of Oregon has made a groundbreaking discovery about stem cell division, finding that cortical proteins help position a cleavage furrow in the right location. This new mechanism has important implications for understanding how stem cells divide to produce unique cell types.
New cell transplantation journal launched
The new journal aims to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of cell medicine in treating debilitating and fatal disorders. The journal features a diverse global editorial board and publishes papers on cell therapy with direct clinical relevance.
SourceCell Transplantation Center of Excellence for Aging and Brain Repair·JournalCell Medicine·DateAug 30, 2010
Human umbilical cord blood cells aid lab animal brain cell survival after simulated stroke
Researchers found that human umbilical cord blood cells stabilized the brain cell environment and aided astrocyte survival after oxygen deprivation. However, the cells also had an impact on cytokine expression, sometimes suppressing inflammation and other times enhancing it.
SourceUniversity of South Florida (USF Health)·JournalStem Cell Reviews and Reports·DateAug 24, 2010
Human neural stem cells restore motor function in mice with chronic spinal cord injury
A UC Irvine study shows that human neural stem cells can reverse long-term hind-limb paralysis in mice with chronic spinal cord injuries. The therapy demonstrates potential for treating a broader population of patients with spinal cord injuries.
Study shows gene's role in developing and maintaining cells key for a lifetime of memories
Researchers discovered that the Prox1 gene plays a crucial role in developing and maintaining cells vital for making new memories throughout life. The study revealed a novel feedback mechanism regulating differentiation of adult neural stem cells.
Repairing spinal cord injury with manipulated neural stem cells
A team of researchers has developed an approach to repairing spinal cord injuries using manipulated neural stem cells. In a mouse model, the cells were combined with valproic acid and resulted in impressive restoration of hind limb function. Further work is needed to determine if this approach can be used in human patients.
Scientists 'reprogram' mouse fat cells into clinically useful stem cells
Researchers have successfully reprogrammed adult mouse fat cells and neural cells to become induced pluripotent stem cells (iPS) that can differentiate into various cell types. The study demonstrates that adipose tissue-derived cells are the most amenable to reprogramming, making them a promising source for clinical applications.
SourceCell Transplantation Center of Excellence for Aging and Brain Repair·JournalCell Transplantation·DateJul 26, 2010
Irradiating stem cell niche doubles survival in brain cancer patients
A study found that high-dose radiation targeting the neural stem cell niche in brain cancer patients doubles their progression-free survival time. Patients who received higher doses experienced 15 months of progression-free survival, while those with lower or no doses had 7.2 months.
Researchers pinpoint key stem cells for eating and sex
Dr. Anthony-Samuel LaMantia's research identifies stem cells responsible for generating nerve cells involved in eating, reproduction, and social behavior. These cells are essential for understanding neurological and mental disabilities, such as autism, schizophrenia, and Alzheimer's disease.
Natural substance NT-020 aids aging brains in rats, USF study finds
Researchers at USF found that combining nutrients called NT-020 increased adult neural stem cell proliferation and boosted learning and memory performance in aged rats. The study suggests aging may be linked to reduced neurogenesis due to inflammation.
Neural stem cells attack glioblastoma cells
Researchers identify a protein released by neural stem cells that induces signaling in glioblastoma cells, causing them to differentiate. This discovery could lead to new therapy concepts targeting tumor stem cells and potentially destroying the aggressive brain tumors.
Gene regulating human brain development identified
Researchers have identified Pax6 as a critical genetic factor in human brain development, governing the differentiation of stem cells into various brain cell types. This discovery may lead to the creation of customized brain cells for therapeutic purposes.
Work-life balance: Brain stem cells need their rest, too
Researchers have identified a key molecular guard that prevents brain stem cells from proliferating, protecting the brain against excessive cell division. This study highlights the importance of bone morphogenetic factor protein (BMP) signaling for maintaining neural stem cells throughout adulthood.
Reprogrammed human blood cells show promise for disease research
Researchers have successfully reprogrammed human blood cells to an embryonic stem-cell-like state, opening up new possibilities for studying genetic and molecular mechanisms of blood disorders and other diseases. This breakthrough uses frozen blood samples from blood banks, providing a readily available source of pluripotent stem cells.
New 2009 Impact Factors soar for newest Cell Press journals
The 2009 Journal Citation Reports reveals a surge in Impact Factors for Cell Press journals, with Cell Stem Cell and Cell Host and Microbe leading the charge. Cancer Cell also continues to grow, while Molecular Cell sees an impressive 13% increase, demonstrating the growing importance of these publications in the scientific community.
Immune system helps transplanted stem cells navigate in central nervous system
A UCI study identifies the body's immune system as a key player in navigating transplanted stem cells to injured areas in the central nervous system. Adult neural stem cells were shown to be guided by CXCR-4 receptors and chemokine proteins to specific sites, where they differentiated into oligodendrocytes to repair damaged tissue.
SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 1, 2010
Discovery of stem cell illuminates human brain evolution, points to therapies
Researchers have discovered a new stem cell in the developing human brain that produces nerve cells forming the neocortex, the site of higher cognitive function. The study sheds light on developmental diseases such as autism, schizophrenia, and Alzheimer's disease, and could lead to novel therapies.
Harnessing the power of stem cells to unlock the secrets of motor neuron disease
A new £800,000 research programme aims to unlock the secrets of motor neuron disease by studying human motor neurons and support cells from donors. The programme will investigate whether support cells are injurious or protective to motor neurons, and may lead to promising new treatment strategies.
Stem cells use GPS to generate proper nerve cells
Researchers at Linköping University discovered a new function that regulates stem cell production of different types of cells in various parts of the nervous system. The study found that Hox genes, similar to a GPS system, guide stem cells to produce specific nerve cells in certain regions.
Endometrial stem cells restore brain dopamine levels
Researchers successfully transplanted endometrial stem cells into the brains of mice with a Parkinson-like condition, restoring partially dopamine levels. This finding raises the possibility of women serving as their own stem cell donors and banks being established for men and women with Parkinson's disease.
SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·JournalJournal of Cellular and Molecular Medicine·DateMay 6, 2010
New nerve cells -- even in old age
Researchers discovered that neuronal stem cells exist in the human brain, even in adulthood, and can form new neurons. Physical activity and pathological stimuli like epileptic seizures reactivate dormant stem cells, promoting the formation of new neurons.
ASNTR meeting presents Sanberg Awards to Prof. Lin & Prof. Dunnett
The American Society for Neural Therapy and Repair (ASNTR) has awarded Dr. Shinn-Zong Lin with the 2010 Bernard Sanberg Memorial Award for Brain Repair in recognition of his significant research contributions in neuroscience. Dr. Lin's work focuses on neural and stem cell transplantation therapy for stroke and Parkinson's disease.
Brain tumors: Tissue stem cell turning into tumor stem cell
Scientists at the German Cancer Research Center discovered that brain stem cells in the subventricular zone are characterized by Protein Tlx, which stimulates gene activity. When Tlx is increased, tissue stem cells turn into cancer stem cells, leading to glioblastoma formation.
Insulin-like signal needed to keep stem cells alive in adult brain
Researchers at University of California - Berkeley found an insulin-like signal necessary to keep stem cells alive in the adult brain. Blocking apoptosis genes alone is not enough, as neural stem cells also require an insulin-type signal to persist. The study suggests that manipulating the insulin pathway may be essential for re-growin...
Novel Parkinson's treatment strategy involves cell transplantation
Scientists at UCSF have developed a novel cell-based strategy to treat Parkinson's disease by transplanting embryonic neurons into the striatum, improving motor function and balance in rats. The approach may offer a more precise effect than traditional strategies and has implications for other neurodegenerative diseases.
Repeated anesthesia can affect childrens ability to learn
A study published in the Journal of Cerebral Blood Flow & Metabolism found that repeated anesthesia can cause a significant decrease in stem cells in the hippocampus, leading to impaired memory and learning in young animals. The researchers believe this effect may be age-related, with younger animals being more susceptible.
Cedars-Sinai Regenerative Medicine Institute to receive ALS Research Award
Clive Svendsen's team develops specifically-engineered stem cells that stall nerve cell degeneration in ALS patients. The award will fund novel ex vivo gene therapy approaches to treat the disease.
Induced neural stem cells: Not quite ready for prime time
A new study finds that induced pluripotent stem cells differentiate less efficiently and faithfully than embryonic stem cells, which are considered the 'gold standard' for all pluripotent stem cells. Despite their limitations, induced stem cells can still be used for certain applications, such as testing potential new drugs.
SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 15, 2010
New form of stem cell communication rescues diseased neurons
Researchers demonstrate that transplanted stem cells can rescue diseased neurons from death by sending signals through gap junctions, a newly recognized way of cell communication. This mechanism may play a role in both normal development and many diseases, including Huntington's disease and spinal cord injuries.
Stem cells rescue nerve cells by direct contact
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have discovered that stem cells can connect with and rescue threatened neurons through direct contact via gap junctions. The findings suggest a new possible treatment approach for brain damage and neurodegenerative diseases.
Study sheds light on role of stem cells in children's brain tumor
Scientists at Queen Mary University of London have discovered that medulloblastomas, the most common type of children's brain cancer, can arise from a specific type of stem cell. This breakthrough finding may lead to new ways to tackle the disease and improve treatment outcomes for patients.
A 'fountain of youth' for stem cells?
Researchers developed a self-assembling nanofiber scaffold to regulate cell activity, delaying growth and differentiation. The innovation enhances the survival rate of implanted stem cells, allowing them to maintain their youthful state and promote neural circuit regeneration.
SourceCell Transplantation Center of Excellence for Aging and Brain Repair·JournalCell Transplantation·DateDec 28, 2009
Stem cell derived neurons for research relevant to Alzheimer's and Niemann-Pick Type C diseases
Researchers have created human stem cell-derived neurons to model Alzheimer's disease and Niemann-Pick Type C, revealing early transport defects as a key factor in severe neuronal dysfunction. The study aims to understand how genetic differences affect cellular transport and behavior in these diseases.
New skin stem cells surprisingly similar to those found in embryos
Scientists have discovered a new type of stem cell in the skin that acts like embryonic stem cells, generating various cell types and aiding in hair growth and wound healing. The dermal stem cells may hold the key to treating baldness and other neurological disorders.
New discovery about the formation of new brain cells
Researchers discovered that the peptide C3a regulates nerve cell maturation and migration in mice, which could lead to treating stroke, Parkinson's disease, and other neurological disorders. The study found that molecules similar to C3a can boost nerve cell formation and replace damaged cells.
Stanford study shows neural stem cells in mice affected by gene associated with longevity
A Stanford study reveals that a gene linked to human longevity impacts the brain's ability to generate new neurons. Researchers found that mice without this gene had fewer neural stem cells and more rapidly churned out nerve cell precursors, leading to brain weight increases.
Modifying neural stem cells improves their therapeutic efficacy
Researchers genetically engineered adult neural stem cells to express anti-inflammatory molecule IL-10, improving functional and pathological recovery from multiple sclerosis. These modified cells induced immunomodulation, nerve cell repair, and production of the nerve cell protective sheath.
JCI online early table of contents: Nov. 2, 2009
Researchers have identified a molecular mechanism underlying DES-induced male infertility in mice, which may be linked to increased incidence of human reproductive disorders. The study found that neonatal exposure to DES disrupts the protein NR0B2, leading to reduced fertility and protected males against negative effects.
Gladstone and partners receive $3.7 million for Huntington's disease research
The Gladstone Institute of Neurological Disease and partners will use induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cell technology to develop human neurons with Huntington's disease characteristics, offering hope for new treatments. The goal is to understand the molecular differences between mice and humans that lead to ineffective therapies.
Case Western Reserve University researchers receive $1.25 million from NIMH to study schizophrenia
Case Western Reserve University researchers are using pluripotent stem cells to study schizophrenia and gain a better understanding of the complex disease. The study aims to characterize brain cell function in adolescent patients with schizophrenia, with the goal of deciphering the underlying cause of the condition.
Genetics of patterning the cerebral cortex
Researchers at Salk Institute discover critical period during which Lhx2 decides progenitors' regional identity, determining the development of distinct cortical regions. This knowledge may help understand neurodegenerative disorders and specify stem cells to repair brain damage.
UNC study pinpoints gene controlling number of brain cells
A UNC study found that the GSK-3 gene plays a crucial role in regulating the balance between neural stem cell proliferation and differentiation. Deleting this gene led to an overabundance of proliferating stem cells, resulting in fewer mature neurons. This discovery has implications for treating neuropsychiatric disorders.
New study resolves the mysterious origin of Merkel cells
A new study resolves the mystery of Merkel cell development, finding that they originate from the embryonic epidermis. Adult skin stem cells also replenish the Merkel cell population as they die off over time.
Release of the Stem Cell Charter
The Canadian Stem Cell Foundation has released a charter that unifies supporters of stem cell research, outlining five principles for advancing the field. The charter aims to promote responsible science, protect citizens, and empower the public to speak out on behalf of stem cell research.
Memories of the way they used to be
Scientists create induced pluripotent stem cells from human neural stem cells using a footprint-free methodology, retaining some gene expression of the original donor cells. The study reveals that these cells maintain a 'transcriptional signature' similar to human embryonic stem cells.
Transplanted human stem cells prolong survival in mouse model of rare brain disease
A study finds substantial improvement in a mouse model of a rare neurodegenerative disease after transplantation of normal human neural stem cells. The transplanted cells provided a critical enzyme missing in the brains of experimental mice, showing promise for a potential therapeutic approach.
'Housekeeping' genes play important role in developmental pathways of cells
Researchers found that HPRT gene plays crucial role in regulating transcription factors' expression and development of neurons, supporting a possible link to Lesch Nyhan disease. The study provides first direct experimental support for HPRT's involvement in neurological disorders.
Technique enables efficient gene targeting in human embryonic stem cells
Researchers have developed a new technique to efficiently edit genes in human embryonic stem cells, enabling the creation of specific cell types for modeling genetic diseases. The method uses zinc finger nucleases to cut out one gene and substitute it with another, allowing precise control over gene expression.
How the pathology of Parkinson's disease spreads
The study reveals that alpha-synuclein aggregates can pass to new, healthy cells, contributing to the progression of Parkinson's disease. The researchers found that cell-to-cell transmission of alpha-synuclein occurs through endocytosis and is linked to impaired quality-control systems in recipient cells.
SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 27, 2009
Neural stem cells offer potential treatment for Alzheimer's disease
Researchers at UC Irvine have found that neural stem cells can rescue memory in mice with advanced Alzheimer's disease by secreting a protein called BDNF, which creates new neural connections. This study provides hope for a potential treatment for the leading cause of elderly dementia.
SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 20, 2009
Transplanted neurons develop disease-like pathology in Huntington's patients
A recent study found that transplanted neurons develop disease-like pathology in Huntington's patients, raising concerns about the therapeutic potential of cell transplantation therapy. The research suggests new mechanisms involved in the development of the disease and offers a new direction for developing novel therapeutic strategies.
Timing is everything: Growth factor keeps brain development on track
Researchers at the Salk Institute found that Fgf10 plays a critical role in regulating brain development by controlling the timing of cellular transitions. This process, known as corticogenesis, allows for the expansion of specific brain areas, such as the frontal lobe in humans.
Neural stem cell differentiation factor discovered
Researchers at Goethe University Frankfurt identified a soluble Notch inhibitor, EGFL7, which blocks neural stem cell self-renewal and promotes differentiation into neurons. The findings offer potential medical applications in tissue development and neurodegenerative diseases.
Tumor suppressor gene in flies may provide insights for human brain tumors
Researchers have identified a fruit fly tumor suppressor gene, PP2A, that can prevent brain tumors from forming. The study suggests that the protein's counterpart in mammals may also play a crucial role in regulating neural stem cell divisions and controlling tumor development.
Most common brain cancer may start in neural stem cells
Researchers found that a deficiency in tumor suppressor gene p53 leads to glioblastoma, a highly aggressive type of brain cancer. The study suggests that targeting the subventricular zone, where neural stem cells reside, may improve treatment outcomes and enable early detection.