Mouse olfactory ensheathing glia enhance axon outgrowth on a myelin substrate in vitro

Exp Neurol, 2009 · DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2008.11.015 · Published: March 1, 2009

Simple Explanation

Olfactory ensheathing glia (OEG) are special cells that support the growth of olfactory axons and show promise in helping nerve regeneration after spinal cord injury. This study uses spinal cord myelin as a surface to test if OEG can help dorsal root ganglion (DRG) axons grow, mimicking an injury environment. The research found that OEG can indeed enhance the growth of these axons on myelin, and this effect is related to a growth factor called BDNF.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Adult wild-type mice (~ 1.3 g total mass)

Evidence Level

In vitro study

Key Findings

1
OEG enhance DRG axon outgrowth on myelin: More neurons generate axons, and their average length is almost twice that of those grown on myelin alone.
2
L1 expression does not contribute to OEG growth promotion.
3
BDNF and TrkB contribute to OEG-enhanced axon regeneration: Blocking either component significantly decreases DRG axon outgrowth.

Research Summary

This study developed an in vitro model to examine the ability of olfactory bulb-derived OEG to promote axon regeneration of DRG neurons on a myelin substrate. The results showed that OEG promote a higher percentage of DRG neurons to extend axons and grow longer processes in an inhibitory myelin-rich environment. The study found that BDNF contributes significantly to the axonal growth-promoting effects of OEG, while L1 is not required for this process.

Practical Implications

Therapeutic Potential

The study supports the therapeutic potential of OEG for promoting axon regeneration after spinal cord injury.

Drug Discovery

The in vitro model can be used to test therapeutic compounds for SCI.

Understanding Mechanisms

The findings provide insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying OEG-mediated axon regeneration, particularly the role of BDNF.

Mouse olfactory ensheathing glia enhance axon outgrowth on a myelin substrate in vitro

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Therapeutic Potential

Drug Discovery

Understanding Mechanisms

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Mouse olfactory ensheathing glia enhance axon outgrowth on a myelin substrate in vitro

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Therapeutic Potential

Drug Discovery

Understanding Mechanisms

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?