Neural stem cell separation from the embryonic avian olfactory epithelium by sedimentation field-flow fractionation

The aim of the present study was to isolate neural stem cells from a complex tissue: the avian olfactory epithelium; by using sedimentation field flow fractionation (SdFFF). By using Hyperlayer clution mode, fraction collection and cell characterization methods, results shows that SdFFF could be a useful cell sorter to isolate an enriched, viable and sterile immature neural cell fraction from which the reconstitution of a complete epithelium was possible. In culture, SdFFF eluted cells first led to a pseudoplacodal epithelioid cell type from which derived floating cells. These cells were then able to generate neurosphere-like structures which were composed of cell having many features of immature cells: undifferentiated. self-renewable and multipotentiality. Such a population might be used as a model to improve our understanding of the mechanisms of olfactory neoneurogenesis. (c) 2006 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.