Method for identifying cells with progenitor features, cells with progenitor features, and their applications

The subject of the invention is the innovative use of Nectin-3 as a surface marker for the precise isolation of rare retinal cell populations with a molecular profile reminiscent of the embryonic state. The method allows for the direct extraction of viable cells from tissue (both developing and adult) using standard sorting techniques (FACS/MACS). This solution eliminates the need for complex genetic modifications, offering a stable tool for studying the cellular diversity and plasticity of the visual system.

 Benefits of use:

• direct surface accessibility- Nectin-3 is an antibody-accessible protein on the cell surface, enabling isolation without the need for tissue perfusion or the use of metabolic dyes.
• viability optimization – shortening the isolation procedure through positive selection minimizes cellular stress, which is crucial for maintaining cell functionality in downstream analyses.
• marker stability throughout ontogeny – the ability to reproducibly identify specific subpopulations at every developmental stage – from the embryonic phase to adulthood.
• new modeling opportunities – a tool for creating precise in vitro models and conducting reliable drug screening assays.
• commercial potential – a foundation for developing standardized isolation kits with high reproducibility, dedicated to the global Life Science market.