Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 15, 2025
Derivation of Leptomeninges Explant Cultures from Postmortem Human Brain Donors
Published on: January 21, 2017
Characterization, isolation, and in vitro culture of leptomeningeal fibroblasts
Jan Remsik1, Fadi Saadeh1, Xinran Tong1
1Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065, United States of America.
Abstract:
Meninges, or the membranous coverings of the brain and spinal cord, play host to dozens of morbid pathologies. In this study we provide a method to isolate the leptomeningeal cell layer, identify leptomeninges in histologic slides, and maintain leptomeningeal fibroblasts in in vitro culture. Using an array of transcriptomic, histological, and cytometric analyses, we identified ICAM1 and SLC38A2 as two novel markers of leptomeningeal cells in vivo and in vitro. Our results confirm the fibroblastoid nature of leptomeningeal cells and their ability to form a sheet-like layer that covers the brain and spine parenchyma. These findings will enable researchers in central nervous system barriers to describe leptomeningeal cell functions in health and disease.
Insights
Researchers developed a method to isolate and culture leptomeningeal cells. Novel markers ICAM1 and SLC38A2 were identified, confirming their fibroblastoid nature and role in central nervous system barriers.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cell Biology
- Histology
Background:
- The meninges, protective membranes of the brain and spinal cord, are implicated in numerous neurological diseases.
- Understanding meningeal cell biology is crucial for studying central nervous system (CNS) barrier functions and pathologies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish a method for isolating and culturing leptomeningeal cells.
- To identify novel molecular markers for leptomeningeal cells in vivo and in vitro.
- To characterize the cellular nature and structural role of leptomeningeal cells.
Main Methods:
- Development of a protocol for isolating the leptomeningeal cell layer.
- Histological examination of meninges.
- In vitro culture of leptomeningeal fibroblasts.
- Transcriptomic, histological, and cytometric analyses.
Main Results:
- Successful isolation and in vitro maintenance of leptomeningeal fibroblasts.
- Identification of ICAM1 and SLC38A2 as novel markers for leptomeningeal cells.
- Confirmation of leptomeningeal cells as fibroblastoid cells forming a continuous layer covering CNS parenchyma.
Conclusions:
- The study provides a robust method for studying leptomeningeal cells.
- ICAM1 and SLC38A2 serve as valuable markers for identifying these cells.
- These findings advance the understanding of leptomeningeal cell function in CNS barrier research.
More Related Videos
06:44Author Spotlight: Unveiling Cellular Functions and Potential Clinical Implications of Leptomeningeal Lymphatic Endothelial Cells
Published on: September 8, 2023
06:25Author Spotlight: Assessing the Potential of Circulating Tumor Cells in Leptomeningeal Disease Research
Published on: March 29, 2024