Neural Stem Cell Approaches to CNS Repair

Neural stem cells (NSCs) can self-renew and give rise to neurons, astrocytes and oligodendrocytes. NSCs are found in the central nervous system (CNS) of mammalian organisms, and represent a promising resource for both fundamental research and CNS repair. Animal models of CNS damage have highlighted the potential benefit of NSC-based approaches. Here we review the progress in the field of NSC biology, including evidence of NSCs presence in the adult brain, NSC markers and current advances in NSC-based approaches for regenerative medicine.