Stem Cell Related Patent Number US7132286

Method for neural stem cell differentiation using valproate

Laeng, Pascal; Washington, DC, United States of America

Herein is described a method for differentiating neural stem cells into neuronal cells, via exposure of the neural stem cells with a valproate compound or analog thereof. The invention relates to a process for differentiating a neural stem cell into a neuronal cell such as a neuroblast or neuron, in vitro or in vivo. Methods are described by which the population of mammalian neural stem cells in a medium that is free of growth factor is contacted with valproate in an amount and at a frequency of exposure sufficient to induce differentiation of the stem cells and expression of a neuronal cell marker. Therapeutic applications in the treatment of central or peripheral nervous system disorders are also discussed.

Application Number: US2002000175168

Date Filed: 06/18/02

Dated Published: 11/07/06

Assignee: Psychiatric Genomics, Inc., Gaithersburg, MD, United States of America