Neuron-restricted progenitors (NRPs) are a specialized population of neural progenitor cells with a key role in the development and maintenance of the nervous system. They are committed to differentiating into the diverse array of neurons required for brain and spinal cord function. Unlike multipotent neural stem cells (NSCs) that can differentiate into various cell types, NRPs have a limited fate, and their primary role is to generate neurons. NRPs are typically found in specific regions of the developing nervous system, including the ventricular zone of the neural tube in the embryonic central nervous system (CNS). They are often situated adjacent to other neural progenitor cells, such as radial glial cells, which provide structural and migratory support. NRPs possess the ability to proliferate, allowing them to expand their numbers during development. Whilst their self-renewal potential is more limited compared to multipotent NSCs, NRPs can undergo several rounds of cell division to generate enough neurons required in the adult. The primary function of NRPs is to produce neurons and they undergo a series of differentiation steps that involve the activation of specific transcription factors and signalling pathways. These processes lead to the generation of different types of neurons with distinct functions, such as motor neurons, interneurons, and sensory neurons. NRPs express specific transcription factors that drive their commitment to the neuronal lineage and regulate the expression of genes associated with neuronal differentiation. For example, the expression of neurogenins and Mash1 (also known as Ascl1) is characteristic of NRPs. Neurogenins (Neurog1 and Neurog2) are transcription factors important for specifying neural progenitors toward a neuronal fate, promoting the generation of neurons, and suppressing alternative cell fates. Neurog1 and Neurog2 are both expressed in NRPs and are essential for neurogenesis in various regions of the nervous system. Similarly, Mash1 is another important transcription factor involved in neuronal differentiation. It is expressed in NRPs and regulates the development of multiple types of neurons whilst inhibiting gliogenesis. NRPs exhibit a degree of cell fate determination, meaning that the type of neuron they ultimately become is influenced by the microenvironment and extracellular signals they encounter during their development. These signals can guide NRPs to adopt specific neuronal identities based on their location and surrounding cues. After their generation from NRPs, newly differentiated neurons often undergo migration to reach their final destinations within the nervous system. NRPs may play a role in guiding these migrating neurons through direct cell-cell interactions or by secreting chemotactic molecules. Once neurons reach their target regions, they establish synaptic connections with other neurons. NRPs may also contribute here to the formation of synaptic connections during early development, although their primary role is in neuronal differentiation. Whilst NRPs are most active during embryonic and early postnatal development, some regions of the adult brain, such as the hippocampus and olfactory bulb, continue to generate new neurons throughout life. In these regions, adult neural stem cells give rise to NRPs, which then differentiate into mature neurons, contributing to learning, memory, and olfaction. We provide a wide product catalogue of research reagents for studying neuron restricted progenitors, including MAP2 antibodies, Olig2 antibodies, Nestin antibodies, and Nestin ELISA Kits. Explore our full neuron restricted progenitors product range below and discover more, for less.