The precise mechanism of how and why neural progenitors develop and mature into diverse types of fully functional neuron cells has not been clear. This technology helps clarify the process of neural progenitor maturation and could help improve treatments for motor neuron injury. This technology takes into account the previously established fact that a gradient of a protein called Sonic Hedgehog (Shh) is present in a gradient along the neural tube and is essential to directing neuron development. It further clarifies the mechanism by which a gradual Shh concentration gradient can result in five distinct and well-defined regions where different neuron cell types emerge. The explanation involves the interaction of additional morphogenic proteins that are either repressed or stimulated by Shh. This technology has the potential to help scientists direct stem cell grown and generate tailor-made neurons.
This technology describes the precise protein combinations needed for different types of neuron cell development. It illustrates which proteins are necessary and which ones are sufficient. It accomplishes this through standard biochemical methods such as retroviral transduction, in ovo electroporation, immunocytochemistry, and in situ hybridization histochemistry. The proteins of interest studied include Shh, Pax7, Irx3, Dbx1 ,Dbx2, Pax6, Nkx6.1, and Nkx2.2. Uncovering the explicit protein combinations that trigger specific differentiations has important implications in stem cell research. This technology could potentially help pave the way for increased control over the development of stem cells into neurons.
US Patent Granted (US 6955802 B1)
Tech Ventures Reference: IR 1045