Abstract
Due to their capacity to self-replicate or produce specific differentiated cell types, neural stem cells (NSCs) and bone marrow derived-mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) are potential sources for cell transplantation therapies, particularly for neural injury. However, the interaction between NSCs and BMSCs during differentiation has not yet been defined. The interaction is believed to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of cell therapy. In the present study, human NSCs and BMSCs were cultured and the Transwell co-culture system was used to observe the interplay between NSCs and BMSCs during differentiation. The results revealed that NSCs promoted BMSCs to differentiate into neurons and NSCs; whereas, BMSCs did not affect the differentiation of NSCs. Simultaneously, co-culture increased the concentration of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and nerve growth factor (NGF), which are secreted by NSCs and BMSCs. The present findings suggest that co-culture of NSCs and BMSCs can promote the differentiation and this process may be modulated by BDNF and NGF.