Abstract
To characterize the properties of adult neural stem cells (NSCs), we generated and analyzed Sox2-GFP transgenic mice. Sox2-GFP cells in the subgranular zone (SGZ) express markers specific for progenitors, but they represent two morphologically distinct populations that differ in proliferation levels. Lentivirus- and retrovirus-mediated fate-tracing studies showed that Sox2+ cells in the SGZ have potential to give rise to neurons and astrocytes, revealing their multipotency at the population as well as at a single-cell level. A subpopulation of Sox2+ cells gives rise to cells that retain Sox2, highlighting Sox2+ cells as a primary source for adult NSCs. In response to mitotic signals, increased proliferation of Sox2+ cells is coupled with the generation of Sox2+ NSCs as well as neuronal precursors. An asymmetric contribution of Sox2+ NSCs may play an important role in maintaining the constant size of the NSC pool and producing newly born neurons during adult neurogenesis.
Publication types
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Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
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Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
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Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
MeSH terms
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Adult Stem Cells / metabolism*
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Animals
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Astrocytes / metabolism*
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Cell Differentiation
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Cell Lineage*
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Cell Proliferation*
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Cell Shape
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Cells, Cultured
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DNA-Binding Proteins / genetics
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DNA-Binding Proteins / metabolism*
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Dentate Gyrus / cytology
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Dentate Gyrus / metabolism*
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Gene Transfer Techniques
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Green Fluorescent Proteins / genetics
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Green Fluorescent Proteins / metabolism
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HMGB Proteins / genetics
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HMGB Proteins / metabolism*
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Lentivirus / genetics
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Mice
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Mice, Inbred C57BL
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Mice, Transgenic
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Microscopy, Fluorescence
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Multipotent Stem Cells / metabolism*
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Neurons / metabolism*
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Physical Exertion
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Promoter Regions, Genetic
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Retroviridae / genetics
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SOXB1 Transcription Factors
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Time Factors
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Transcription Factors / genetics
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Transcription Factors / metabolism*
Substances
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DNA-Binding Proteins
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HMGB Proteins
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SOXB1 Transcription Factors
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Sox2 protein, mouse
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Transcription Factors
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Green Fluorescent Proteins