PACAP and VIP Promote Initiation of Electrophysiological Activity in Differentiating Embryonic Stem Cells

Abstract

Owing to their capacity to differentiate in vitro into various types of neuronal cells, embryonic stem (ES) cells represent a suitable model for studying the first steps of neuronal differentiation and cerebral development. Since pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) and vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP) are known to control maturation of the nervous system, we have investigated the possible effects of these two neuropeptides on the differentiation of ES cells. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analysis revealed that mouse ES cells express PAC1 and VPAC2 receptors. Electrophysiological recordings demonstrated that PACAP and VIP facilitate the emission of currents, suggesting that these peptides can initiate the genesis of an electrophysiological activity in differentiating ES cells.