Analysis of Schwann-astrocyte Interactions Using In Vitro Assays

JoVE, 2011 · DOI: 10.3791/2214 · Published: January 1, 2011

Simple Explanation

Schwann cells are used in spinal cord injury repair because they support axonal regeneration by secreting growth factors and adhesion molecules. However, after transplantation, they don't mix with host astrocytes, forming a boundary. In vitro assays, like boundary and migration assays, help study these interactions. The boundary assay involves co-culturing Schwann cells and astrocytes to observe their behavior at the contact point. The migration assay tracks Schwann cell movement on astrocyte monolayers, using an inverted coverslip technique to assess migration from the coverslip edge.

Study Duration

8-10 days

Participants

Primary rat Schwann cells and astrocytes

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Schwann-astrocyte co-cultures show a sharp boundary, especially when Schwann cell proliferation is enhanced using forskolin and BPE.
2
Migration assays assess cell movement, a different phenomenon than boundary formation, showing how one cell type moves over another.
3
Factors like N-Cadherins, CSPGs, FGF/Heparin, and Eph/Ephrins have been identified as being involved in cellular exclusion and boundary formation.

Research Summary

Schwann cells are promising for spinal cord injury repair due to their ability to support axonal regeneration. However, their limited integration with host astrocytes poses a challenge. In vitro assays, including boundary and migration assays, are crucial for understanding the mechanisms of Schwann cell-astrocyte interactions and boundary formation. Understanding these interactions can lead to strategies for improving Schwann cell graft integration, facilitating axon regeneration and reconnection with host tissue.

Practical Implications

Optimizing Graft Integration

Understanding the mechanisms of boundary formation can lead to strategies to improve Schwann cell graft integration in spinal cord injuries.

Enhancing Axon Regeneration

By promoting Schwann cell migration and interaction with host tissue, axon regeneration and reconnection can be facilitated.

Targeted Therapeutic Development

Identifying key molecules involved in cell-cell interactions allows for the development of targeted therapies to modulate these processes.

Study Limitations

1
Boundary formation may not occur, requiring adjustments to culture time or cell density ratios.
2
The inverted coverslip migration assay requires practice to avoid damage to cell layers.
3
The study is limited to in vitro assays, which may not fully replicate the complexity of in vivo conditions.

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