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miRNAs are required for the terminal differentiation of white matter astrocytes in the developing CNS
1Institute of Developmental and Regenerative Biology, Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Organ Development and Regeneration, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310029, China.
Abstract:
While the regulation of the neurogenesis and oligodendrogenesis by microRNAs has been intensively studied, little is known about the role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in the development of astrocytes. Here, we report that microRNAs play an essential role in the differentiation and maturation of white matter astrocytes in mouse spinal cord tissues. In glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP)/Dicer conditional mutants, the initial generation of astrocyte progenitor cells was normal in the spinal cord. However, there was a much reduced number of GFAP+ astrocytes with shorter processes in the white matter of mutant tissues. In contrast, the expression of gray matter protoplasmic astrocyte marker was not affected. Together, our studies indicated that miRNAs are required for the differentiation and morphological maturation of white matter fibrous astrocytes in the developing spinal cord.
Insights
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are essential for the development of white matter astrocytes in the mouse spinal cord. These molecules regulate astrocyte differentiation and maturation, impacting their morphology and function.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Developmental Biology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are known regulators of neurogenesis and oligodendrogenesis.
- The role of miRNAs in astrocyte development, particularly white matter astrocytes, remains largely unexplored.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of microRNAs in the differentiation and maturation of white matter astrocytes in the developing mouse spinal cord.
Main Methods:
- Utilized glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP)/Dicer conditional mutants in mouse spinal cord tissues.
- Assessed astrocyte progenitor cell generation and the number and morphology of GFAP+ astrocytes.
Main Results:
- Initial astrocyte progenitor cell generation was unaffected in mutant spinal cords.
- A significant reduction in GFAP+ astrocytes with shortened processes was observed in the white matter of mutant tissues.
- Gray matter protoplasmic astrocyte markers showed no significant changes.
Conclusions:
- MicroRNAs are crucial for the differentiation and morphological maturation of white matter fibrous astrocytes.
- These findings highlight a specific role for miRNAs in white matter development within the spinal cord.
