Abstract: A method of improving the efficacy of denervated, quiescent, or dormant motor neurons includes expressing light sensitive G protein coupled receptors in the motor neurons, the light sensitive G protein coupled receptors modulating cellular activity in the motor neurons upon exposure to a wavelength of light and exposing the motor neurons expressing the light sensitive G protein coupled receptors to the wavelength of light.

Abstract: Methods for generating various cellular phenotypes from central nervous system stem cells are disclosed. Cellular differentiation into phenotypes of organs and tissues within and outside of the central nervous system is induced by co-culture with target cell types or by soluble trophic factors and elements of the extracellular matrix. Established pluripotent CNS stem cell lines are also disclosed.