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Updated: Aug 13, 2026
Genetic Study of Axon Regeneration with Cultured Adult Dorsal Root Ganglion Neurons
Published on: August 17, 2012
Gene expression pathways induced by axotomy and decentralization of rat superior cervical ganglion neurons
Arianna Del Signore1, Veronica De Sanctis, Ernesto Di Mauro
1Dipartimento di Biologia Cellulare e dello Sviluppo, Università La Sapienza, Piazzale A. Moro, 5, 00185 Roma, Italy.
Abstract:
To identify genes potentially involved in remodelling synaptic connections, we induced the temporary detachment of pre- and post-synaptic elements by axotomy or denervation of rat superior cervical ganglion neurons. cDNA microarray analysis followed by stringent selection criteria allowed the identification of a panel of genes whose expression was modulated by axotomy at various time points after injury. Among these genes, 11 were validated by real-time reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction on independently prepared samples after superior cervical ganglion neuron axotomy (1, 3 and 6 days) and compared with the effect of decentralization (8 h, 1 and 3 days). These genes code for extracellular matrix/space [apolipoprotein D (apoD), decorin, collagen alpha1 type I, collagen alpha1 type III] and intermediate filament (vimentin) proteins, for modulators of neurite outgrowth (thrombin receptor, plasminogen activator inhibitor-1, bone morphogenetic protein 4, annexin II and S-100-related protein, clone 42C) and for a nerve cell transcription factor (brain finger protein). Eight of these 11 genes showed significant and persistent modulations after both types of injury. Finally, protein levels of apoD were shown to increase in superior cervical ganglion after axotomy. Our results identify hitherto unrecorded genes responsive to axotomy and decentralization of superior cervical ganglion neurons, and probably involved in synapse formation, remodelling and elimination.
Insights
Researchers identified novel genes involved in synapse remodeling after nerve injury in rats. These genes are crucial for understanding nerve repair and synaptic plasticity.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Synaptic connections are dynamic and undergo remodeling.
- Understanding the genetic basis of synaptic remodeling after injury is crucial for nerve repair.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify genes modulated by axotomy and decentralization in rat superior cervical ganglion (SCG) neurons.
- To investigate the role of these genes in synaptic plasticity and repair.
Main Methods:
- Induction of axotomy and decentralization in rat SCG neurons.
- cDNA microarray analysis to identify differentially expressed genes.
- Validation of gene expression using real-time reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).
- Western blot analysis to confirm protein level changes.
Main Results:
- Identified 11 genes modulated by axotomy and/or decentralization.
- Eight of these genes showed significant and persistent modulation after both injury types.
- Genes identified include those involved in extracellular matrix, neurite outgrowth, and transcription factors.
- Increased apolipoprotein D (apoD) protein levels were observed post-axotomy.
Conclusions:
- Discovered novel genes responsive to nerve injury in SCG neurons.
- These genes are likely involved in synapse formation, remodeling, and elimination.
- Findings provide insights into molecular mechanisms underlying neural repair and plasticity.
