Related Experiment Videos
Structure, expression and function of a schwannoma-derived growth factor
H Kimura1, W H Fischer, D Schubert
1Salk Institute for Biological Studies, San Diego, California 92186-5800.
Nature
|November 15, 1990
Summary
Researchers identified a new growth factor, schwannoma-derived growth factor (SDGF), crucial for nervous system development. This factor, belonging to the epidermal growth factor family, stimulates the division and survival of glial cells and fibroblasts.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cell Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Nervous system development relies on growth factors for cell division and survival.
- Identifying novel growth factors is essential for understanding neural development and disease.
Purpose of the Study:
- To screen for and identify new mitogens for central nervous system glial cells.
- To purify and characterize a novel mitogenic molecule from Schwann cells.
Main Methods:
- Screening of serum-free conditioned media from clonal cell lines.
- Establishment and culture of a JS1 Schwann cell line from a schwannoma.
- Purification and characterization of schwannoma-derived growth factor (SDGF).
Main Results:
- A potent glial mitogen was identified from JS1 Schwann cells.
- The purified molecule, SDGF, was characterized as belonging to the epidermal growth factor family.
- SDGF demonstrated autocrine activity and mitogenic effects on astrocytes, Schwann cells, and fibroblasts.
Conclusions:
- Schwannoma-derived growth factor (SDGF) is a novel autocrine growth factor.
- SDGF plays a significant role in glial cell proliferation and survival.
- SDGF has potential implications for nervous system development and repair.