Myotube-derived factor promotes oligodendrocyte precursor cell proliferation

Muscle cells secrete numerous molecules that function as endocrine hormones and regulate the functions of distant organs. Myelination in the central nervous system (CNS) is regulated by peripheral hormones. However, the effects of muscle-derived molecules on myelination have not been sufficiently analyzed. In this study, we show that muscle-releasing factors promote proliferation of oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs), which is an element of myelination process. Supernatants of mouse myotube cultures stimulated bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) incorporation into mouse OPCs. Mouse myotube supernatants did not enhance mouse OPC transmigration and myelin basic protein (MBP) expression. RNA sequencing identified candidate genes with hormonal functions that were expressed in mouse myotubes. These data support the possibility that hormonal molecules secreted by myotubes contribute to OPC proliferation and myelination.