Schwann Cell-Like Cells: Origin and Usability for Repair and Regeneration of the Peripheral and Central Nervous System

Cells, 2020 · DOI: 10.3390/cells9091990 · Published: August 29, 2020

Regenerative Medicine Neurology Genetics

Simple Explanation

This review analyzes the existing literature on generating Schwann cell-like cells (SCLC) from various stem cell sources, including mesenchymal stem cells, pluripotent stem cells, and genetically programmed somatic cells. It assesses their biological performance in promoting axonal regeneration in both the peripheral and central nervous systems. The review aims to provide insights into current developments in SCLC differentiation and their applications in treating peripheral and central nervous system injuries, offering direction for future research strategies.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Not specified

Evidence Level

Review

Key Findings

1
Schwann cell transplantation can help overcome hurdles and reverse the inhibitory microenvironment into a permissive niche for regeneration.
2
Adipose-derived MSCs, UCB-MSCs, WJ-MSCs, Hf-NCSCs, and SKPs are promising for clinical translation, provided they can be directly and rapidly differentiated with long-term functional stability and safety.
3
Genetically modified cells, ESCs, and iPSCs remain controversial due to ethical, technical, and regulatory constraints.

Research Summary

Peripheral nerve injuries (PNI) affect approximately 1 million people worldwide annually, and long-gap nerve injuries present significant clinical challenges, often requiring autologous nerve transplantation. Autologous nerve grafts have drawbacks like limited donor sites and co-morbidities, making bio-engineered nerve grafts with neurotrophic cells a viable option. Schwann cells (SC) transplantation has shown therapeutic potential in promoting axonal regeneration and myelination in both the peripheral and central nervous system (CNS).

Practical Implications

Therapeutic Strategies

Exploration of stem cell-derived SCLCs as a therapeutic alternative to overcome limitations associated with autologous SC harvest.

Clinical Translation

Advancement of efficient and safe differentiation methods for SCLCs to improve their therapeutic efficacy and facilitate clinical transition.

Research Focus

Emphasis on preclinical studies involving chronic nerve injury models to better mirror clinical scenarios and rejuvenate chronically denervated distal segments.

Schwann Cell-Like Cells: Origin and Usability for Repair and Regeneration of the Peripheral and Central Nervous System

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Therapeutic Strategies

Clinical Translation

Research Focus

Study Limitations

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Schwann Cell-Like Cells: Origin and Usability for Repair and Regeneration of the Peripheral and Central Nervous System

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Therapeutic Strategies

Clinical Translation

Research Focus

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?