Embryonic and adult neural stem cell research in China.

Neural stem cells (NSCs) are one specific type of multipotential stem cells that have the ability to proliferate for a long time and to differentiate into neural cells, including neurons, astrocytes and oligodendrocytes. These NSCs exist in both the embryonic and adult central nervous system (CNS) of all mammalian species. Progress has been made in the understanding of the developmental regulation of NSCs and their function in neurogenesis. This review discusses recent progress in this area, with emphasis on work done by investigators in China.