Beneficial Effects of GFAP/Vimentin Reactive Astrocytes for Axonal Remodeling and Motor Behavioral Recovery in Mice after Stroke

Glia, 2014 · DOI: 10.1002/glia.22723 · Published: December 1, 2014

Simple Explanation

This study investigates the role of reactive astrocytes, specifically those expressing GFAP and vimentin, in recovery after stroke in mice. The researchers compared motor function, axonal remodeling, and CSPG expression in wild-type mice and mice lacking GFAP and vimentin after a stroke. The findings suggest that reactive astrocytes with GFAP and vimentin contribute to neurological recovery by promoting axonal remodeling in the spinal cord.

Study Duration

4 weeks

Participants

44 mice (WT and GFAP−/−Vim−/−)

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
GFAP−/−Vim−/− mice exhibited reduced motor functional recovery and BDA-positive CST axonal length compared to WT mice after stroke.
2
In GFAP−/−Vim−/− mice, CSPG expression was significantly increased in lesion remote areas but decreased in the ischemic lesion boundary zone, compared with WT mice.
3
Attenuated astrocytic reactivity impairs neurological recovery by reducing CST axonal remodeling in the denervated spinal cord.

Research Summary

The study compared behavioral outcome, axonal remodeling, and CSPG expression between wild-type (WT) and GFAP−/−Vim−/− mice after stroke. Motor functional recovery and CST axonal length were significantly reduced in GFAP−/−Vim−/− mice compared with WT mice. CSPG expression was significantly increased in the lesion remote areas in GFAP−/−Vim−/− mice, but decreased in the ischemic lesion boundary zone, compared with WT mice.

Practical Implications

Therapeutic Target

Manipulation of astrocytic reactivity post-stroke may represent a therapeutic target for neurorestorative strategies.

Importance of Glial Scar

Glial scar formation in the infarct proximal boundary region may not be a major barrier factor for neurological recovery after cerebral stroke, but may have restorative effects.

Astrocytes Role

Involvement of astrocytes in axonal remodeling and functional recovery after stroke may represent a possible therapeutic target for neurorestorative strategies.

Study Limitations

1
Photothrombotic stroke may lead to a delayed, rather than reduced, CSTaxonal remodeling and neurological recovery in mice deficient for GFAP and vimentin
2
The specific types of astrocytes and neurons that contribute to the observed effects remain to be further characterized.
3
The study did not examine the potential effect of reactive astrocytes on endogenous neurogenesis after stroke.

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