Title:  Influence of chemical and biological cues on differentiation of
neural progenitor cells

Speaker: Erin Jones, Chemical & Biological Engineering, ISU
Location: 2222 Coover
Time: 2:10-3pm

Abstract:  For stem and progenitor cells to become clinically useful, the
mechanisms behind their differentiation must be understood.  To help
elucidate these mechanisms, we have exposed a population of adult
hippocampal progenitor cells (AHPCs) to preformed distributions of
extracellular matrix protein and co-culture with other neural cells.  We
assess differentiation with immunocytochemistry exploiting specific antibody
staining and fluorescence microscopy.  Currently, mehods used to assess
differentiation are time-consuming.  Preliminary results show that exposure
to primary cortical astrocytes cause AHPCs to increase neuronal
differentiation.  The astrocyte produced factor is not contact-mediated, but
soluble in the media.  Purified laminin substrate enhances neuronal
differentiation more than mixtures of ECL proteins.  We will present these
results and highlight potential areas for improvement in image analysis.