The generation of specific neuronal-lineages for cellular therapies hold great
promise for nervous system disorders. Stem cells can offer regenerative and
replacement therapies of the nervous system through cell signalling, which is directed
by the addition of cytokines and neuronal growth factors. Adipose-derived Stem Cells
(ASCs) are capable of differentiating into neuronal and glial cells through induced cell
signalling pathways and altered redox status. In this chapter, we addressed the dynamic
changes within ASCs in response to the changes in its milieu - a pre-requisite for transdifferentiation
in vitro. We considered the functional use of ASCs as a regenerative
tool in recovering neuronal cells by focusing on ligand expression and their effects on
transmembrane receptors. We also discussed various levels of cell signalling capable of
modifying epigenetic programming for trans-differentiation processes. Finally, we
underlined the fact that harnessing of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) and ROSmediated
cellular signalling is a secret recipe for successful differentiation of stem cells
in vitro.
Keywords: Adipose stem cells, Cell signalling, Differentiation, Epigenetics,
Growth factors, Glia, Laser, Light, Neurons, Photobiomodulation, Reactive
Oxygen Species.
