In vivo targeting of adult neural stem cells in the dentate gyrus by a split-cre approach

Stem Cell Reports. 2014 Feb 6;2(2):153-62. doi: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2014.01.004. eCollection 2014 Feb 11.

Abstract

We describe the labeling of adult neural stem cells (aNSCs) in the mouse and human dentate gyrus (DG) by the combinatorial expression of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and Prominin1, as revealed by immunohistochemistry. Split-Cre-based genetic fate mapping of these double-positive cells in the adult murine DG reveals their NSC identity, as they are self-renewing and contribute to neurogenesis over several months. Their progeny reacts to stimuli such as voluntary exercise with increased neurogenesis. Prominin1+/GFAP+ cells also exist in the adult human DG, the only region in the human brain for which adult neurogenesis has been consistently reported. Our data, together with previous evidence of such double-positive NSCs in the developing murine brain and in neurogenic regions of vertebrates with widespread neurogenesis, suggest that Prominin1- and GFAP-expressing cells are NSCs in a wide range of species in development and adulthood.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • AC133 Antigen
  • Adult Stem Cells / metabolism*
  • Animals
  • Antigens, CD / genetics
  • Antigens, CD / metabolism
  • Dentate Gyrus / cytology*
  • Dentate Gyrus / metabolism*
  • Gene Expression
  • Gene Targeting*
  • Genes, Reporter
  • Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein / genetics
  • Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein / metabolism
  • Glycoproteins / genetics
  • Glycoproteins / metabolism
  • Hippocampus / metabolism
  • Homologous Recombination*
  • Humans
  • Mice
  • Neural Stem Cells / metabolism*
  • Neuroglia / metabolism
  • Peptides / genetics
  • Peptides / metabolism
  • Protein Binding
  • Protein Transport

Substances

  • AC133 Antigen
  • Antigens, CD
  • Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein
  • Glycoproteins
  • Peptides