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Experimental Demyelination and Remyelination of Murine Spinal Cord by Focal Injection of Lysolecithin
Published on: March 26, 2015
Myelin and Oligodendrocyte Dysfunction in Demyelinating and Neurodegenerative Disorders: Signaling Pathways and
Shivang Shukla1, Vivek Srivastava2, Harshita Gaur2
1Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medical, Paramedical, Health and Allied Sciences, Jagannath University, Chaksu Campus, Jaipur, 303901, India.
Introduction:
Oligodendrocytes (OLs) synthesize myelin, a substance that plays a significant role in ensuring proper functioning of the Central Nervous System (CNS). Myelin abnormalities are involved in disease pathogenesis in AD, MS, and ALS. In contrast, MS involves autoimmune reactions directed against myelin. On the other hand, AD and ALS are characterized by neurodegeneration. This article seeks to give a critical discussion on myelin and OL dysfunction in these diseases, among others.
Methods:
A narrative literature search was carried out in various databases including Scopus, Google Scholar, Web of Science, and PubMed, focusing on papers relating to myelination, remyelination, and OLs, particularly those addressing signaling pathways and treatment strategies.
Results:
MS is an autoimmune disease characterized by inflammation that causes demyelination and OL dysfunction. Oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction play roles in the pathogenesis of ALS, whereas AD is a result of disrupted neuronal supportive functions and myelin damage. Important signaling pathways involved in OL formation and myelin repair include the Wnt/β-catenin, AKT/mTOR, and ERK/MAPK pathways. Drugs like edaravone, ocrelizumab, and siponimod have been identified for promoting myelin repair.
Discussion:
The relationship between abnormal oligodendrocyte function, demyelination, and specific disease-related pathological processes demonstrates that although there is a similarity among MS, AD, and ALS, each condition possesses its own unique molecular foundation. One potential treatment approach would be targeting shared signaling pathways relevant to myelination and remyelination. Nonetheless, disease variability and specific pathogenic characteristics demand a targeted therapy approach.
Conclusion:
Myelin integrity and oligodendrocyte function are central to the progression of demyelinating and neurodegenerative diseases. Targeting molecular pathways involved in myelination offers significant potential for improving disease outcomes and developing advanced therapeutic strategies.
Insights
Oligodendrocyte (OL) dysfunction and myelin damage are implicated in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and multiple sclerosis. Targeting myelination pathways offers potential therapeutic strategies for these conditions.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cell Biology
- Pathology
Background:
- Oligodendrocytes (OLs) are crucial for myelin synthesis, vital for Central Nervous System (CNS) function.
- Myelin abnormalities are implicated in Alzheimer's Disease (AD), Multiple Sclerosis (MS), and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).
- MS involves autoimmune demyelination, while AD and ALS feature neurodegeneration and myelin damage.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically discuss myelin and OL dysfunction in AD, MS, and ALS.
- To explore signaling pathways and treatment strategies for myelination and remyelination.
Main Methods:
- A narrative literature search was conducted across major scientific databases (Scopus, Google Scholar, Web of Science, PubMed).
- The search focused on research concerning myelination, remyelination, OLs, signaling pathways, and therapeutic interventions.
Main Results:
- MS pathogenesis involves inflammation-induced demyelination and OL dysfunction.
- ALS pathogenesis is linked to oxidative and mitochondrial dysfunction, while AD involves disrupted neuronal support and myelin damage.
- Key pathways for OL formation and myelin repair include Wnt/β-catenin, AKT/mTOR, and ERK/MAPK; drugs like edaravone, ocrelizumab, and siponimod show promise for myelin repair.
Conclusions:
- While MS, AD, and ALS share similarities in OL dysfunction and demyelination, each disease has a unique molecular basis.
- Targeting shared myelination and remyelination signaling pathways presents a potential therapeutic avenue.
- Disease variability necessitates tailored therapeutic approaches for optimal outcomes.
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