High Yields of Oligodendrocyte Lineage Cells from Human Embryonic Stem Cells at Physiological Oxygen Tensions for Evaluation of Translational Biology

• DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2013.09.006
• Publication Date: 2013-10-31T13:50:10Z
• Authors: Sybil R.L. Stacpoole; Sonia Spitzer; Bilada Bilican; Alastair Compston; Ragnhildur Karado...; Siddharthan Chandran; Robin J.M. Franklin
• Keywords: OLIG2; Galactocerebroside; Forebrain; Precursor cell

We have established and efficient system to specify NG2/PDGF-Ra/OLIG2+ oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) from human embryonic stem (hESCs) at low, physiological (3%) oxygen levels.This was achieved via both forebrain spinal cord origins, with up 98% of expressing NG2.Developmental insights reveal a critical role for fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF-2) in OLIG2 induction ventral pathways.The OPCs mature vitro express O4 (46%) subsequently become galactocerebroside (GALC), O1, myelin basic protein-positive (MBP+) multibranching oligodendrocytes.These were cultured alongside hESC-derived neurons.The electrophysiological properties are similar those rat OPCs, large voltage-gated sodium currents the ability fire action potentials.Exposure selective retinoid X receptor agonist increased proportion O4+ oligodendrocytes that MBP 5% 30%.Thus, we developmentally engineered investigate biological test effects putative remyelinating agents prior clinical application.