Nestin-Expressing Stem Cells Promote Nerve Growth in Long-Term 3-Dimensional GelfoamH-Supported Histoculture

The study investigates nestin-expressing cells in the sciatic nerve of mice to understand their role in nerve growth and regeneration. Nestin-expressing cells from hair follicles can differentiate into various cell types, including neurons and Schwann cells. The research used transgenic mice with fluorescent markers to track nestin-expressing cells and their interactions in a 3D culture system using GelfoamH. This system allowed for long-term observation of nerve fiber extension and intermingling. The study found that nestin-expressing cells in the sciatic nerve can differentiate into neurons and glial cells and contribute to nerve fiber growth and interaction with other nerves. These findings suggest a critical function of nestin-expressing cells in peripheral nerve growth and regeneration.

• 1
  Nestin-expressing cells in the sciatic nerve have the ability to form spheres and differentiate into neurons, glia, keratinocytes, and smooth muscle cells in vitro.
• 2
  Nestin-expressing cells in sciatic nerves form axon fibers that extend the nerve and can intermingle with other sciatic nerves in long-term 3-dimensional GelfoamH histoculture.
• 3
  The growing fibers of the sciatic nerve intermingle with a co-cultured sciatic nerve and the dorsal root ganglion in GelfoamH histoculture.