Fig 1

Expression of stem cell phenotype in RD cells and its inhibition by U0126. a Representative microphotographs of RD cells in adherent conditions (Ad) and in SC medium after 15 days of incubation in the absence (rhabdospheres, SC-m^SPH) or in the presence of 10 μM U0126 (SC-m + U) (Bar = 100 μm). b Histograms of percentage of CD133, CXCR4 and ALDH positive cells determined by FACS analysis. Values represent the mean ± SD of 5 independent experiments. Statistical significance is indicated (**p < 0.01,*p < 0.05). c-d Western blot analysis of protein lysates from adherent RD cells (Ad) and RD in SC medium without (SC-m^SPH) or with 10 μM U0126 (SC-m + U) at 15 days. c The expression levels of Nanog, ERK1/2-PO₄ and ERK1/2 were analyzed. Protein bands were quantified by densitometry with respect to GAPDH. Representative experiment is shown. d The expression levels of myogenin and myosin heavy chain (MHC) were analyzed. Protein bands were quantified with respect to α-tubulin. Representative experiment is shown (out of three). e Cell invasion of RD in SC medium without (SC-m^SPH) or with 10 μM U0126 (SC-m + U). Representative experiment is shown. Statistical significance is indicated (*p < 0.05)