Differentiation of a Human Neuroblastoma Cell Line into Mature Neurons

Source: Shipley, M. M., et al. Differentiation of the SH-SY5Y Human Neuroblastoma Cell Line. J. Vis. Exp. (2016). This video demonstrates a technique for transforming undifferentiated SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells into fully differentiated mature neurons using a systematic passaging technique. This involves culturing the cells in a series of media with gradually decreasing serum levels to inhibit the proliferation of epithelial-like cells while promoting the differentiation and proliferation of neuron-like cells. Additionally, the media is supplemented with retinoic acid and specific growth factors that induce terminal differentiation of neuron-like cells into mature neurons exhibiting an extensive branched morphology.