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Updated: Jun 30, 2026

Analyzing Murine Schwann Cell Development Along Growing Axons
Published on: November 21, 2012
Neuregulin-1, a key axonal signal that drives Schwann cell growth and differentiation
Carmen Birchmeier1, Klaus-Armin Nave2
1Max-Delbrueck-Centrum, Robert-Roessle-Strasse 10, Berlin-Buch, Germany.
Abstract:
Interactions between neuronal and glial cells are crucial for establishing a functional nervous system. Many aspects of Schwann cell development and physiology are regulated by neuronal signals; possibly the most spectacular is the elaboration of the myelin sheath. An extensive line of research has revealed that one neuronal factor, termed "neuregulin", promotes Schwann cell growth and survival, migration along the extending axon, and myelination. The versatility of glial responses elicited by this factor is thus clearly astounding.
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