Division and differentiation of isolated CNS blast cells in microculture
Article Abstract:
Blast cells, or immature cells of the central nervous system (CNS), from the forebrain of embryonic rats can be grown in tissue culture. The cells can differentiate or mature into various cell types if other live cells from nerve fibers are present. It is thought that cells from the nerve fibers secrete factors which are necessary for growth of the blast cells. Either neurons (nerve cells) or astrocytes (non-neuronal, supporting cells of the brain) develop from a single cell or clone. From blast cells grown in culture 70 percent developed into neurons; 8 percent developed into astrocytes; and 22 percent matured as both neurons and astrocytes. There appears to be three different types of blast cells. The first develops into either neural or non-neuronal cells. The second differentiates into both neural and non-neuronal cells. The third type divides and remains blast-like. Since the environment is initially the same for all the single cells, the cells probably contain factors themselves that determine what type of cell the blast will mature into. This system of studying single-cells can be used to study the development of blast cells from different areas in the brain and will aid in our understanding of the development and function of the brain.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 1989
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A moving experience
Article Abstract:
The process of creating links between neurons in the brain involves very small protrusions on the postsynaptic neurons named dendritic filopodia. These grow, extend and retract to sample surrounding input connections.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 2000
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Calcium stores regulate the polarity and input specificity of synaptic modification
Article Abstract:
Research is presented describing the study of nervous system synaptic activity and the role played by calcium in regulating neuron efficiency.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 2000
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