Nurr1 performs its anti-inflammatory function by regulating RasGRP1 expression in neuro-inflammation.

Nurr1, a transcription factor belonging to the orphan nuclear receptor, has an essential role in the generation and maintenance of dopaminergic neurons and is important in the pathogenesis of Parkinson' disease (PD). In addition, Nurr1 has a non-neuronal function, and it is especially well known that Nurr1 has an anti-inflammatory function in the Parkinson's disease model. However, the molecular mechanisms of Nurr1 have not been elucidated.

Rapid differentiation of astrocytes from human embryonic stem cells.

Astrocytes are abundant cells in the brain and have vital roles in various brain functions that include biochemical support of endothelial cells, supplying nutrients to the nervous tissue, maintaining the extracellular ion balance, etc. In developing nervous tissue, the differentiation of astrocytes occurs later compared to neurons. It takes more time and more techniques to obtain mature and pure astrocytes in vitro.