Apoptosis of neurons and oligodendrocytes in the spinal cord of spinal hyperostotic mouse (twy/twy): possible pathomechanism of human cervical compressive myelopathy

Eur Spine J, 2012 · DOI: 10.1007/s00586-011-2025-x · Published: September 21, 2011

Simple Explanation

This study investigates the mechanisms behind spinal cord damage in cervical compressive myelopathy, a condition caused by compression of the spinal cord in the neck. The researchers used a special type of mouse, called twy/twy, that develops spinal problems similar to those seen in humans with this condition. The study found that the death of nerve cells (neurons) and cells that protect nerve fibers (oligodendrocytes) in the spinal cord is linked to the severity of spinal cord compression.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

28 twy/twy mice and 12 ICR mice

Evidence Level

Animal model study

Key Findings

1
Apoptosis of oligodendrocytes in the compressed area of the spinal cord is correlated with the magnitude of cord compression.
2
Overexpression of TNFR1, CD95, and p75NTR was observed in the twy/twy mice, localized in neurons and oligodendrocytes.
3
Increased numbers of TUNEL-positive neurons in the gray matter and oligodendrocytes in the white matter of the spinal cord were found in twy/twy mice.

Research Summary

This study used twy/twy mice as a model for human cervical compressive myelopathy to investigate cellular and molecular changes in the spinal cord under chronic compression. The researchers found a significant correlation between the proportion of apoptotic oligodendrocytes and the magnitude of spinal cord compression, along with overexpression of TNFR1, CD95, and p75NTR. The study concludes that the expression of these factors plays a role in the apoptotic process, contributing to axonal degeneration and demyelination in the spinal cord of twy/twy mice with severe compression.

Practical Implications

Understanding Myelopathy

Provides insights into the pathophysiological mechanisms of cervical compressive myelopathy.

Therapeutic Targets

Identifies potential therapeutic targets (TNFR1, CD95, p75NTR) for intervention in spinal cord compression.

Animal Model Validation

Validates the use of the twy/twy mouse as an animal model for studying human cervical compressive myelopathy and assessing therapeutic efficacy.

Study Limitations

1
TUNEL staining is not specific to apoptosis and may also reflect necrosis.
2
Findings are based on an animal model and may not fully translate to human pathophysiology.
3
The exact mechanisms of upregulation of inflammatory cytokines require further investigation.

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Back to Spinal Cord Injury