Abstract: A method of improving the survival of neuronal cells has the steps of obtaining a frozen cellular composition comprising neuronal cells; thawing the cellular composition; and contacting the cellular composition with a balanced electrolyte solution including a lithium salt. One example of a lithium salt is lithium chloride. Also is provided a kit comprising a container of with a cellular composition comprising neuronal cells and a container of a diluent comprising a balanced electrolyte solution and a lithium salt.

Abstract: Differentiated neuronal cells suitable for transplantation in individuals with a dopamine deficiency are derived from progenitor cells. The progenitor cells are treated with at least one inducing agent such as retinoic acid for a time period sufficient to optimize expression of tyrosine hydroxylase. The cells intended for transplantation are optionally treated with a lithium salt to enhance bcl-2 production and survival. Optionally, the progenitor cells are co-cultured with Sertoli cells, bone marrow stem cells, or a combination thereof. The transplantation-ready cells are isolated and harvested. The resulting neuronal cells are purified and have a phenotype optimized to treat a dopaminergic deficiency, such as Parkinson's Disease. Optionally the neuronal cells can be implanted with Sertoli cells, bone marrow stem cells or a combination thereof.