A review of the factors affecting the proliferation of neural stem and progenitor cells

Abstract

Neural stem cells are undifferentiated cells that are located in limited areas of central nervous system. These cells have proliferation and self-renew ability and can be differentiated into neurons and glial cells. Mature nerve cells do not have proliferative ability; and due to the limited number of nerve stem cells, injuries to the nervous system are not recoverable. The purpose of this review is to identify characteristics and factors that may influence proliferation and differentiation of neural stem cells. These cells provide useful tools for in vitro study of neural cells developmental stages. Besides, they have extensive therapeutic applications providing an unlimited source of cells for tissue transplantation and repair. Overall, the identification of factors contributing to neural stem cell's proliferation and differentiation can be effective for body's natural capacity to repair nerve damages. For cell therapy purposes, application of induced medium or an appropriate stimulants may have an effective role in increasing the rate of growth and proliferation of these cells in vitro.