This invention relates to compositions and methods for enhanced differentiation of cells towards a neuronal phenotype. Neuronal cells produced using the compositions and methods may be used in the study of neurological diseases and disorders, for drug screening and for therapeutic purposes. The invention provides a method for producing a neuron comprising inducing neuronal differentiation of a cell, wherein neuronal differentiation in said cell is induced by inhibition of Small Mothers Against Decapentaplegic (SMAD) signaling and nitric oxide synthase (NOS) in said cell.
