Lecture on Neural Stem Cells and Development

Flashcards covering key terms and concepts related to neural stem cells and brain development from the lecture notes.

Pluripotent Stem Cells

Stem cells that can differentiate into any cell type in the body.

Neural Stem Cells

Stem cells that can become any of the three main types of nervous system cells: neurons, astrocytes, and oligodendrocytes.

Gastrulation

The phase early in the embryonic development that establishes the three germ layers: ectoderm, mesoderm, and endoderm.

Neurulation

The process during embryonic development when the neural tube forms, leading to the development of the central nervous system.

Hox Genes

A group of related genes that control body plan development in early embryos.

Inductive Signals

Molecular signals that influence cell differentiation and development, essential in establishing distinct brain regions.

Delta-Notch Signaling

A pathway that plays a major role in preventing the differentiation of neighboring cells in the developing nervous system.

Medulloblastoma

A type of brain cancer that can arise from elevated levels of Gli1 induced by sonic hedgehog (SHH) signaling.

Sonic Hedgehog (SHH)

A signaling molecule involved in regulating embryonic development, particularly in the brain and spinal cord.

Neuroectoderm

A layer of embryonic tissue that gives rise to the nervous system.