In vitro analysis of the origin and maintenance of O-2Aadult progenitor cells.

• DOI: 10.1083/jcb.116.1.167
• Publication Date: 2004-05-12T21:20:14Z
• Authors: D Wren; G Wolswijk; M Noble
• Keywords: Progenitor

We have been studying the differing characteristics of oligodendrocyte-type-2 astrocyte (O-2A) progenitors isolated from optic nerves perinatal and adult rats. These two cell types display striking differences in their vitro phenotypes. In addition, O-2Aperinatal progenitor population appears to a limited life-span vivo, while O-2Aadult appear be maintained throughout life. seem largely disappeared nerve by 1 mo after birth, are not detectable cultures derived contrast, can first 7-d-old rats still present 1-yr-old observations raise questions: (a) From what source do originate; (b) how is life? now provide evidence indicating that directly subpopulation progenitors. also capable prolonged self renewal vitro. our data suggests generation oligodendrocytes occurs primarily through asymmetric division differentiation, contrast with self-extinguishing pattern symmetric differentiation displayed suggest express at least some properties stem cells thus may able support both differentiated progeny as well own continued replenishment