Abstract
Stem cell factor (SCF) and granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) were originally discovered as growth factors for hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). It has been well defined that SCF and G-CSF contribute to regulation of lineage commitment for HSCs. However, little is known about whether SCF and G-CSF play roles in the determination and differentiation of neural stem cells (NSCs). Here we demonstrate the novel function of SCF and G-CSF in controlling cell cycle and cell fate determination of NSCs. We also observe that SCF and G-CSF promote neuronal differentiation and inhibit astroglial differentiation at the early stage of differentiation. In addition, our research data reveal that SCF in combination with G-CSF has a dual function in promoting cell cycle exit and directing neuronal fate commitment at the stage of NSC dividing. This coordination effect of SCF+G-CSF on cell cycle arrest and neuronal differentiation is through enhancing neurogenin 1 (Ngn1) activity. These findings extend current knowledge regarding the role of SCF and G-CSF in the regulation of neurogenesis and provide insights into the contribution of hematopoietic growth factors to brain development and remodeling.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 17-25 |
Number of pages | 9 |
Journal | Differentiation |
Volume | 83 |
Issue number | 1 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Jan 2012 |
Keywords
- BHLH transcription factors
- G-CSF
- Lineage commitment
- NSC differentiation
- Neurogenin 1
- SCF
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Molecular Biology
- Developmental Biology
- Cell Biology
- Cancer Research