Permanent expression of midbrain dopaminergic neurons traits in differentiated amniotic epithelial cells

► Isolated AECs temporarily express dopaminergic markers. ► Neuronal markers decrease after culture of AECs. ► FGF8 and Shh increase the expression of dopaminergic markers. ► Shh ceases the differentiation in dopaminergic state and decreases DβH; a catecholaminergic marker. ► Differentiated cells with FGF8 and Shh permanently express midbrain dopaminergic markers.