Figure 1.

Differentiation of NSCs in the embryonic cortex. Neuroepithelial cells repeatedly undergo self-renewal by symmetric division. As development proceeds, neuroepithelial cells elongate to become radial glial cells, which have cell bodies in the inner region (ventricular zone, VZ) of the neural tube and long processes (radial fibers) that reach the outer surface (Basal side). Radial glial cells give rise to intermediate progenitors or neurons. Each intermediate progenitor migrates into the subventricular zone (SVZ) and produces neurons. Neurons further migrate into the basal side and form the cortical plate (CP). After producing neurons, radial glial cells differentiate into glia (oligodendrocytes and astrocytes). Neuroepithelial cells and radial glial cells are both considered embryonic NSCs.