Stem cells are thought to exert neuroprotective effects by generating neurotrophic factors, modulating MMP and other aspects of the CNS environment that may promote endogenous healing.[114] Research on stem cell mobilization and the possible neuroprotective contribution of granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) showed that G-CSF was greatly expressed by the RGCs, thereby providing neuroprotection in neurodegenerative diseases.[115] Also, oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs), a type of neural stem cell, may provide protection to RGCs from damage.[76, 116]. The gene discussed is CSF3; the disease is neurodegenerative disease.