Motor Neurons Derived From Embryonic Stem Cells

Via EurekAlert!: "Scientists have devised a method for coaxing mouse embryonic stem cells into forming a highly specific motor neuron subtype. The research [provides] new insight into motor neuron differentiation and may prove useful for devising and testing future therapies for motor neuron diseases. ... The existence of dozens of muscle groups in the limbs of most mammals demands an equivalent diversity of motor neuron pool subtypes ... During normal development, motor neurons settle into specific sections of the spinal cord (called columns), which correspond to the muscles that they will innervate. For example, cells in one area link up with muscles in the limbs, while cells residing in another region innervate muscles in the body wall. Although previous studies have shown that mouse and human embryonic stem cells can be converted into motor neurons, it was not clear whether these were 'generic' neurons or whether they could acquire characteristics of the specific specialized subtypes. In the current study, [researchers] showed that removing a key differentiation factor allowed cultured embryonic stem cells to form motor neurons with molecular characteristics corresponding to a limb innervating subtype, without the need for genetic manipulation or added factors. Importantly, when this stem cell-derived subtype was transplanted into embryonic chick spinal cords, the motor neurons settled in the expected columnar position within the cord and had projections that mimicked the trajectory of limb innervating motor neurons."

Link: http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2010-09/cp-fmn082510.php

Comment Submission

Post a comment; thoughtful, considered opinions are valued. New comments can be edited for a few minutes following submission. Comments incorporating ad hominem attacks, advertising, and other forms of inappropriate behavior are likely to be deleted.

Note that there is a comment feed for those who like to keep up with conversations.