Oligodendrocyte Precursor Cells in Spinal Cord Injury: A Review and Update

Spinal cord injury (SCI) can lead to oligodendrocyte loss and demyelination, contributing to secondary damages. Oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) are potential sources for replacing lost oligodendrocytes after SCI. OPCs respond to injuries by proliferating rapidly and differentiating into myelinating oligodendrocytes. However, endogenous remyelination post-trauma is often incomplete. Current therapies for SCI include early operations, symptomatic relief, and rehabilitation. Cell-based transplantation, particularly using OPCs, is a promising therapeutic approach.

• 1
  Mature oligodendrocytes, responsible for myelination in the CNS, are highly susceptible to damage after SCI, leading to their loss.
• 2
  OPCs can differentiate into myelinating oligodendrocytes and contribute to remyelination after SCI, as supported by transplantation experiments.
• 3
  Glial scar formation, to which OPCs may contribute, hinders axonal regeneration and creates a hostile environment for OPCs differentiation.