Human fetal Schwann cells in culture: phenotypic expressions and proliferative capability

In this report we examined the phenotypic expressions and the proliferative capability of cultured human fetal Schwann cells. Antigens that were expressed included laminin, nerve growth factor receptor, neural cell adhesion molecule, S-100 protein, and that recognized by the monoclonal antibody HNK-1. In addition, HLA-A,B,C and HLA-DR, respectively, class I and class II antigens of the major histocompatibility complex, were demonstrated on Schwann cells. Mitotic capability was high, with an average of 34% of Schwann cells undergoing proliferation over a 2-day period.