iCell Astrocytes Kit, 01434

Astrocytes are specialized glial cells and the most abundant cell type in the central nervous system (CNS). Astrocytes have historically been regarded as support cells for neural tissue, with reactive astrocytes serving as markers for damaged or diseased tissue. However, new studies reveal that astrocytes play an essential and complex role in the maintenance of a healthy CNS and in the onset and development of CNS disease.

CDI’s iCell^® Astrocytes are human iPS cell-derived astrocytes. They provide a readily accessible, consistent, and biologically relevant source of astrocytes for the study of synaptic transmission and plasticity in normal CNS function and disease progression. Benefits include:

• >95% pure population of human astrocytes
• Expression of relevant astrocyte markers (e.g. S100β and GFAP)
• Exhibition of cytokine-mediated inflammatory responses
• Limited proliferative capacity and long-term viability
• Ability to co-culture with human neurons

Enhance the Relevance of Your Neuroscience Models

Normal CNS Functions

• Synaptic remodeling and pruning
• Neurotransmitter homeostasis
• Neural network communication
• Blood-brain barrier support
• Regulation of CNS blood flow
• CNS metabolism

Disease CNS Functions

• Reactive astrogliosis and CNS inflammation
• Neurodegenerative disease
• Neuropsychiatric disease
• Alexander disease and leukodystrophies
• Multiple sclerosis and autoimmune inflammatory disorders
• Infectious disease