Nestin

Nestin is a protein expressed in the nervous system of mammalian embryos during early stages of development. It is found in the radial glial cells, which are the major glial cells that guide the migration of neurons in the brain during embryonic development. Nestin has been found to be important in the formation of the central nervous system, regulating neuronal proliferation, neurite outgrowth and neuronal differentiation. Due to its role in early nervous system development, Nestin is considered a useful marker for adult stem cell proliferation, differentiation and regeneration. By measuring Nestin expression in stem cells, researchers can gain insight into stem cell behavior and its potential use for regenerative medicine.