Generation of oligodendrocytes from human embryonic stem cells

This protocol describes a method to generate oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPC) by the formation of yellow floating spheres. After plating, these spheres express specific OPC markers and can be used for transplantation in spinal cord injury animal models. In order to induce terminal differentiation into oligodendrocytes, OPCs are plated onto poly-l-lysine coated coverslips for prolonged culturing periods. These mature oligodendrocytes have a typical cell morphology, and express the GalC and O4 markers.