Neurogenesis potential of oligodendrocyte precursor cells from oligospheres and injured spinal cord

Frontiers in Cellular Neuroscience, 2022 · DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2022.1049562 · Published: December 22, 2022

Simple Explanation

This study investigates the potential of oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) to turn into neurons after spinal cord injury (SCI). It looks at OPCs from both laboratory cultures (oligospheres) and from the injured spinal cords of mice. The study found that OPCs can form structures called oligospheres in the lab, and these oligospheres can further develop into cells that resemble neurons. After SCI, OPCs in the injured spinal cord become activated and show some signs of being able to transform into neurons. The study also found that endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, a condition where cells have difficulty processing proteins, can lead to OPC death. Reducing ER stress can help protect OPCs and might influence how they develop.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Juvenile and adult mice

Evidence Level

Level not specified, in vitro and in vivo study

Key Findings

1
OPCs from brain and spinal cord exhibit significant differences in differentiation and morphology.
2
OPCs are involved in oligosphere formation and can differentiate into neuron-like cells in vitro, identifying intermediate states during differentiation.
3
Endoplasmic reticulum stress inhibition can attenuate OPC death and regulate stemness and differentiation of oligospheres.

Research Summary

This study explores the neurogenesis potential of OPCs derived from oligospheres and injured spinal cords, revealing differences in OPC differentiation between brain and spinal cord. The research identifies that OPCs can form oligospheres and differentiate into neuron-like cells, with the identification of intermediate states during this process. The study also uncovers that inhibiting endoplasmic reticulum stress can protect OPCs from death and influence the stemness and differentiation of oligospheres, providing potential therapeutic targets for spinal cord repair.

Practical Implications

Therapeutic Target

Targeting endoplasmic reticulum stress to protect OPCs in SCI.

Cell Source

OPCs as a potential source for neurogenesis in spinal cord repair.

Regeneration Strategy

Reprogramming OPCs into neurons for spinal cord regeneration.

Study Limitations

1
Lack of a method to isolate 100% pure oligodendrocytes.
2
Mechanisms of oligosphere differentiation into neuron-like cells are unknown.
3
Further lineage tracing and in-depth characterization of neurons are needed.

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