[The development, phenotypic characteristics and communications of Schwann cells]

The Schwann cell is one of the major cell types in vertebrate peripheral nervous system. The Schwann cell precursors are derived from the neural crest and migrate along the growing axons towards their ultimate localization. Recently obtained data regarding expression of different molecules (S100 protein, myelin proteins, low-affinity nerve growth factor receptor, GAP-43, adhesion molecules) and particularly transcription factors SCIP and Krox-20 allowed to precisely characterize lineage for myelinating and non myelinating Schwann cells and their phenotypes. The special attention to communication between neurones and Schwann cells is paid. The advance in study of the biology of Schwann cell is of great practical importance for understanding the molecular basis of neuropathies and posttraumatic peripheral nerve regeneration. Schwann cells are also considered as intriguously perspective candidates for transplantation into CNS to stimulate regeneration of axons in brain and spinal cord.