The precursor cells for oligodendrocytes were first discovered in 1993 by Raff, Miller and Noble and have been extensively studied. These precursor cells are referred in the literature as either oligodendrocyte-type-2 astrocyte progenitor cells or oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPC). The developing and adult central nervous system both contain OPC. Oligodendrocytes, the myelin-forming cells of the central nervous system, develop from OPC. In culture, OPC can be generated from neural progenitors or neural stem cells in the presence of basic fibroblast growth factor and they proliferate in presence of platelet-derived growth factor or factors produced by astrocytes and differentiate into mature oligodendrocytes. Based on these qualities, OPC provide an exceptional population to study developmental transitions. HOPC from ScienCell Research Laboratories are isolated from human brain. HOPC are cryopreserved after purification and delivered frozen. Each vial contains >1 x 106 cells in 1 ml volume. HOPC are characterized by immunofluorescence with antibodies specific to A2B5 and O4. HOPC are negative for HIV-1, HBV, HCV, mycoplasma, bacteria, yeast, and fungi. HOPC are guaranteed to further culture under the conditions provided by ScienCell Research Laboratories; however, HOPC are not recommended for expanding or long-term cultures since the cells do not proliferate in culture. Recommended Medium It is recommended to use Oligodendrocyte Precursor Cell Medium (OPCM, Cat. #1601) for culturing HOPC in vitro and Oligodendrocyte Precursor Cell Differentiation Medium (OPCDM, Cat. #1631) for differentiating HOPC.