<正> Objective: To isolate neural progenitors from midbrain of new born rats. Methods: Cell groups with cloning capability were obtained from midbrain of new-born rats by using serum-free and floating cell culture. Immunocytochemistry was applied to detect antigens such as BrdU

Nestin and specific markers for mature neural cells. Results: Cell groups isolated from midbrain propagated in succession and shaped ’neuro-spheres’. Nestin antigen was expressed in the course of proliferation. After differentiation

epitopes of neuron

astrocyte and oligodendrocyte were all found in the neural progenitors-derived cells

the most majority were astrocyte-epitoped cells. Conclusion: Cell groups expressing Nestin isolated from midbrain of new-born rats have properties of propagating

multi-potency differentiating and self-renewal. It is demonstrated that the cell groups are stem-like neural progenitors in the central nervous system

which are qualified for cell therapy of diseases in central nervous system.