Typical and atypical stem cells in the brain, vitamin C effect and neuropathology

• Francisco Nualart ^[1] ; Katterine Salazar ^[1] ; Karina Oyarce ^[1] ; Pedro Cisternas ^[1] ; Nery Jara ^[1] ; Carmen Silva-Álvarez ^[1] ; Patricia Pastor ^[1] ; Fernando Martínez ^[2] ; Andrea García ^[1] ; María de los Ángeles García-Robles ^[2] ; Juan Carlos Tapia ^[3]
  1. [1] University of Concepción CMA Bio Bio Laboratory of Neurobiology and Stem Cells
  2. [2] University of Concepción Department of Cellular Biology Laboratory of Cellular Biology
  3. [3] Columbia University Departments of Neuroscience

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• Localización: Biological Research, ISSN-e 0717-6287, ISSN 0716-9760, Vol. 45, Nº. 3, 2012, págs. 243-256
• Idioma: inglés
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  • Stem cells are considered a valuable cellular resource for tissue replacement therapies in most brain disorders. Stem cells have the ability to self-replicate and differentiate into numerous cell types, including neurons, oligodendrocytes and astrocytes. As a result, stem cells have been considered the "holy grail" of modern medical neuroscience. Despite their tremendous therapeutic potential, little is known about the mechanisms that regulate their differentiation. In this review, we analyze stem cells in embryonic and adult brains, and illustrate the differentiation pathways that give origin to most brain cells. We also evaluate the emergent role of the well known anti-oxidant, vitamin C, in stem cell differentiation. We believe that a complete understanding of all molecular players, including vitamin C, in stem cell differentiation will positively impact on the use of stem cell transplantation for neurodegenerative diseases.