Prolactin induced increase in neural stem cell numbers
US8222212B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 29, 2010 |
| Grant date | Jul 17, 2012 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 29, 2030 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61K35/12
- WIPO fieldPharmaceuticals
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
The present invention provides a method of increasing neural stem cell numbers or neurogenesis by using prolactin. The method can be practiced in vivo to obtain more neural stem cells in situ, which can in turn produce more neurons or glial cells to compensate for lost or dysfunctional neural cells. The method can also be practiced in vitro to produce a large number of neural stem cells in culture. The cultured stem cells can be used, for example, for transplantation treatment of patients or animals suffering from neurodegenerative diseases or conditions. In addition, since neural stem cells are a source for olfactory neurons, the present invention also provides methods of increasing olfactory neurons and enhancing olfactory functions.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.