Protocol for functional characterization of adult hippocampal neural precursor cells under demyelinating injury conditions in mice.

Adult hippocampal neural precursor cells (Hip-NPCs) are highly influenced by brain injury and diseases. Investigating the properties of Hip-NPCs is important for determining their reparative response. Here, we present a protocol for the functional characterization of Hip-NPCs under physiological and demyelinating conditions in adult mice. We describe steps for assessing of Hip-NPC self-renewal, activation state, proliferation, metabolism, and tri-lineage fate commitment. This workflow enables systematic evaluation of how pathological conditions and therapeutic interventions alter Hip-NPC functional states and adaptive responses. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Nemati et al.1.