Neural Stem Cell and Differentiation Markers

Neural stem cells develop from the neural crest, which is derived from the ectoderm. In response to a complex combination of signaling pathways, neural stem cells differentiate further to form the specific cell types that form the central nervous system. R&D Systems offers tools to identify neural stem cells and cells of the neural crest. In addition, we offer products to study changes in the expression of molecules that are considered differentiation markers of specific neural lineages. For example, neural stem cells are characterized by high levels of Nestin expression. Cells that differentiate into neurons, astrocytes, and oligodendrocytes can be identified by detecting increased expression of beta-III Tubulin, GFAP, and Oligodendrocyte Marker O4, respectively. Antibodies are also available to detect cell populations that have differentiated into motor neurons.