抄録
Neural stem cells are a subtype of progenitor cells in the nervous system that can selfrenew and generate neurons, astrocytes, and oligodendrocytes. Stem cells have been isolated from many regions of the embryonic nervous system. Recent studies reveled that adult neural stem cells exist in the adult neurogenic regions, the hippocampus and the subventricular zone, and in some non -neurogenic regions, including spinal cord. Now, neural stem cells can be isolated and cultured as floating, multicellular neurospheres. This review summarizes isolation methods for neural stem cells and the regulatory mechanisms of neural differentiation. The potential therapeutic uses of neural stem cells are also discussed.
