Marcks and Marcks-­like 1 proteins promote spinal cord development and regeneration in Xenopus

This study examines the role of Marcks and Marcksl1 proteins in spinal cord development and regeneration using Xenopus laevis (clawed toad) as a model. These proteins are known to modulate cellular processes. The researchers found that Marcks and Marcksl1 are essential for neurite formation and the proliferation of neuro-glial progenitors during spinal cord development. They also found they are essential for regeneration during tadpole stages. The study suggests that the functions of Marcks and Marcksl1 are partly mediated by phospholipid signaling, opening potential therapeutic avenues for stimulating spinal cord regeneration.

• 1
  Marcks and Marcksl1 are required for normal neurite formation during spinal cord development, acting redundantly.
• 2
  Marcks and Marcksl1 are necessary for the proliferation of neuro-glial progenitor cells in the developing spinal cord.
• 3
  Phospholipid signaling, particularly PIP2-dependent activation, mediates the functions of Marcks and Marcksl1 during spinal cord development and regeneration.