Differentiation of Neural Progenitor Cells into Neurons

Begin with a gelatin-coated multiwell plate containing mouse embryonic stem cell-derived neural progenitor cells in a nutrient-rich basal differentiation medium.

The progenitor cells utilize these nutrients from the media to maintain their viability.

Incubate to allow cell attachment to the gelatin-coated surface, then wash to remove unattached cells and debris.

Introduce a basal differentiation medium supplemented with a stabilizing agent, additional nutrients, and neural growth factors crucial for cell differentiation and then incubate.

The progenitor cells consume the nutrients and growth factors, initiating their differentiation into neurons that begin to extend their cellular processes.

Concurrently, the stabilizing agent interacts with toxic metabolites and protects the developing neurons from oxidative damage, preserving their viability.

Regularly replace the media to maintain nutrient levels.

Over time, the neurons mature, developing axons — the longer cellular processes.

Additionally, they also develop dendrites, the shorter cellular processes, confirming stem cell differentiation into neurons.