Differential potential of neural crest cells

The neural crest is a transient structure formed during the neurulation which undergoes change of phenotype in the process of epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Subsequently, neural crest cells delaminate and migrate collectively and individually to their place of destination, where they differentiate into a broad repertoir of mesenchymal and non-mesenchymal cell types. This thesis aims to examine true differential potential of these cells based on crucial in vitro experiments. Neural crest cells show not only high migration potential, but also stem cells characteristics like multipotency and self-renewal capacity. I also provide answers to questions about cellular potency at the level of neural crest population and along anterior-posterior axis. It was necessary to clarify the essence of events leading to induction, specification, epithelial-mesenchymal transition and migration of neural crest cells, since they are crucial for their differentiation potential. A major role in differentiation as well as in previous processes plays the gene regulatory network which is comprised of mutually affecting signalling pathways. Studying the behaviour of migratory and post-migratory neural crest cells is important for the research of regenerative medicine and even cancer and neurocristopathic treatment.