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Remyelination by cells introduced into a stable demyelinating lesion in the central nervous system
Journal of the Neurological Sciences
|April 1, 1980
Summary
Injecting peripheral Schwann cells into the central nervous system (CNS) showed potential for remyelination in demyelinating lesions. However, the extent of this Schwann cell remyelination was limited by cell concentration and requires further functional recovery investigation.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cell Biology
- Regenerative Medicine
Background:
- Demyelinating lesions in the central nervous system (CNS) pose significant challenges for repair.
- Oligodendrocytes are the primary myelinating cells in the CNS, but their remyelination capacity can be insufficient.
- Schwann cells, the myelinating cells of the peripheral nervous system (PNS), have been explored as a potential source for CNS remyelination.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential of autogeneic peripheral Schwann cells to remyelinate established demyelinating lesions in the cat spinal cord.
- To assess the extent and characteristics of Schwann cell-mediated remyelination in the CNS.
- To identify potential limitations to Schwann cell remyelination in the CNS.
Main Methods:
- Diphtheria toxin was used to create focal demyelinating lesions in the cat spinal cord.
- Schwann cells, sourced from autogeneic peripheral nerves, were injected into these lesions.
- Control lesions received no Schwann cell injection.
- Lesions were examined at various time points post-injection to assess myelination by Schwann cells.
Main Results:
- In control lesions, only oligodendrocyte remyelination was observed.
- In lesions receiving Schwann cell injections, Schwann cell-derived myelin was identified, particularly in the posterior columns.
- Widespread Schwann cell remyelination of central axons was observed in more extensive lesions, concentrated around damaged dorsal root entry zones.
- Schwann cell myelinated fibers showed thick myelin sheaths by one month, but many demyelinated axons persisted.
Conclusions:
- Injection of peripheral Schwann cells can improve CNS remyelination in demyelinating lesions.
- The extent of Schwann cell remyelination in the CNS is currently limited.
- Potential limitations include the concentration of injectable Schwann cells and the need for further investigation into functional recovery.