Differential Regulation of MeCP2 Phosphorylation by Laminin in Oligodendrocytes

Oligodendrocytes (OLGs) are the myelinating cells of the central nervous system (CNS), and its proper differentiation is crucial for normal functioning of neurons. Methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MeCP2) is a multifunctional methylated DNA binding protein; mutation of which causes Rett syndrome, a severe neurodevelopmental disorder. Previously, we reported that MeCP2 is expressed in all the stages of oligodendrocyte development, and also shown the role of MeCP2 as a transcription regulator of myelin genes in OLGs. The expression and function of MeCP2 phosphorylation at S80 (pS80MeCP2) has been well studied in neurons and astrocytes; however, there is no data so far available in OLGs regarding pS80MeCP2. Certain developmental stimuli such as growth factors and extracellular matrix (ECM) protein play important role in OLG development. In the present study, we have examined the effects of external stimuli (growth factors (GFs) and extracellular matrix (ECMs)) on S80 phosphorylation of MeCP2 in N19 oligodendroglial cells (N19 OLGs). This study provides the first evidence that laminin (LN) differentially regulates the expression of pS80MeCP2 in immature and mature N19 OLGs. Thus, MeCP2 is phosphorylated in a stimulus-dependent manner during oligodendrocyte development, and thereby, it may regulate the oligodendrocyte behavior.