EN
The complex and diverse cell signaling cascades underlying neural progenitor cell division and differentiation remain poorly understood. Here we demonstrate that neural progenitor cells are forming calcium (Ca2+) networks in the embryonic brain that critically control cell division. This was observed in both BrdUpulsed animals and mouse embryonic stem (ES) cell-derived neural progenitors. The intracellular Ca2+ signal cascade is driven by electrical activity and influx of Ca2+-ions from the extracellular space. Mathematical cross-correlation analysis reveals more developed networks and stronger synchronicity of spontaneous Ca2+ activity in differentiated ES cells as compared to undifferentiated cells. The signaling mechanisms were independent of synaptic transmission and indicated that gap junctions where playing a major role in this signaling event. In summary, our results suggest a novel function for Ca2+ signaling networks in regulating cell division of neural progenitor cells.