Neural Stem Cell Markers

Neural stem cells (NSCs) represent an undifferentiated, multipotent population which give rise to all specialised cells in the nervous system. Through complex pathways and transitions, NSCs commit to different neural lineages facilitating the production of neurons, astrocytes and oligodendrocytes. Neural development originates in the early embryo from pluripotent neuroepithelial cells. These transition into a class of NSCs called radial glial cells (RGCs). RGCs have long processes that span the developing neural tube and are able to commit to either neuronal or glial lineages. Following rounds of expansive symmetrical divisions, RGCs switch to an asymmetrical division mode. Here, each cycle produces a daughter RGC and a daughter progenitor of neuronal / glial fate responsible for driving neurogenesis / gliogenesis respectively. During these processes, progenitor cells migrate along the radial glial scaffold to their appropriate positions in the developing brain before differentiating to become specialised. Beyond early development, adult NSCs are retained primarily within two neurogenic niches of the brain; these are the subventricular zone and the subgranular zone. Endogenous adult NSCs confer an additional layer of plasticity to the brain through a variety of direct and indirect mechanisms. All these pathways of cell fate determination, proliferation, migration and differentiation are controlled by a complex interplay of molecular cues including transcription factors, growth factors and extracellular matrix components. The use of stem cell protein markers allows researchers to identify, isolate and track the progression of neural development, helping decipher the mechanisms underpinning these processes. Nestin, SOX2, TLX and Musashi-1 are common markers highlighting the maintenance of stem cell properties and self-renewal within populations. Nestin, a type VI intermediate filament protein is a classic marker expressed in neural progenitor cells, while SOX2 and TLX are transcription factors regulating self-renewal. Musashi-1, an RNA-binding protein regulates asymmetric cell division. Detection of the marker proteins CD133 and ABCG2 are valuable for the identification and isolation of neural stem cells during development. Other markers include SOX1, PAX6, and BRN2; these proteins are involved in neural induction, neurogenesis, and cell fate determination in neural progenitor cells. Further, frizzled-9, a receptor in the Wnt signalling pathway, contributes to neural development and cell fate specification. We offer a large range of antibodies against neural stem cell markers including CD164 antibodies, Ki67 antibodies, SOX2 antibodies, SOX9 antibodies, and Vimentin antibodies, that are validated for use in multiple applications and available in various host species, antibody types, and formulations. Using these reagents, researchers can gain insights into the molecular bases of brain development and regeneration.