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Published on: December 29, 2017
Pericytes in Muscular Dystrophies
Louise Anne Moyle1, Francesco Saverio Tedesco2,3, Sara Benedetti4,5
1Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering, Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
Abstract:
The muscular dystrophies are an heterogeneous group of inherited myopathies characterised by the progressive wasting of skeletal muscle tissue. Pericytes have been shown to make muscle in vitro and to contribute to skeletal muscle regeneration in several animal models, although recent data has shown this to be controversial. In fact, some pericyte subpopulations have been shown to contribute to fibrosis and adipose deposition in muscle. In this chapter, we explore the identity and the multifaceted role of pericytes in dystrophic muscle, potential therapeutic applications and the current need to overcome the hurdles of characterisation (both to identify pericyte subpopulations and track cell fate), to prevent deleterious differentiation towards myogenic-inhibiting subpopulations, and to improve cell proliferation and engraftment efficacy.
Insights
Pericytes, cells in blood vessels, have a complex role in muscular dystrophies. Some research suggests they aid muscle repair, but others show they can worsen fibrosis and fat buildup in muscles.
Area of Science:
- Muscle biology
- Cellular and molecular medicine
- Regenerative medicine
Background:
- Muscular dystrophies are inherited muscle-wasting diseases.
- Pericytes are cells that support blood vessels and have been implicated in muscle regeneration.
- Recent studies present conflicting data on pericyte roles in muscle, with some suggesting they contribute to fibrosis and adipose tissue accumulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the identity and multifaceted roles of pericytes in dystrophic muscle.
- To discuss potential therapeutic applications of pericytes in muscular dystrophy.
- To highlight challenges in pericyte characterization and therapeutic strategies.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on pericytes and muscular dystrophy.
- Analysis of conflicting data regarding pericyte function in muscle regeneration and disease.
- Discussion of cell tracking and differentiation challenges.
Main Results:
- Pericytes exhibit a dual role in dystrophic muscle: potential for regeneration versus contribution to fibrosis and fat deposition.
- Identification of specific pericyte subpopulations is crucial for understanding their function.
- Challenges exist in tracking cell fate and preventing detrimental differentiation.
Conclusions:
- Understanding pericyte heterogeneity is key to harnessing their therapeutic potential in muscular dystrophy.
- Overcoming hurdles in characterization, preventing adverse differentiation, and improving cell engraftment are critical for therapeutic success.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the precise mechanisms by which pericytes influence dystrophic muscle pathology.
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