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Xu Z, Arkudas A, Munawar MA, Schubert DW, Fey T, Weisbach V, Mengen LM, Horch RE, Cai A. Schwann Cells Do Not Promote Myogenic Differentiation in the EPI Loop Model. Tissue Eng Part A 2024; 30:244-256. [PMID: 38063005 DOI: 10.1089/ten.tea.2023.0215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
In skeletal muscle tissue engineering, innervation and vascularization play an essential role in the establishment of functional skeletal muscle. For adequate three-dimensional assembly, biocompatible aligned nanofibers are beneficial as matrices for cell seeding. The aim of this study was to analyze the impact of Schwann cells (SC) on myoblast (Mb) and adipogenic mesenchymal stromal cell (ADSC) cocultures on poly-ɛ-caprolactone (PCL)-collagen I-nanofibers in vivo. Human Mb/ADSC cocultures, as well as Mb/ADSC/SC cocultures, were seeded onto PCL-collagen I-nanofiber scaffolds and implanted into the innervated arteriovenous loop model (EPI loop model) of immunodeficient rats for 4 weeks. Histological staining and gene expression were used to compare their capacity for vascularization, immunological response, myogenic differentiation, and innervation. After 4 weeks, both Mb/ADSC and Mb/ADSC/SC coculture systems showed similar amounts and distribution of vascularization, as well as immunological activity. Myogenic differentiation could be observed in both groups through histological staining (desmin, myosin heavy chain) and gene expression (MYOD, MYH3, ACTA1) without significant difference between groups. Expression of CHRNB and LAMB2 also implied neuromuscular junction formation. Our study suggests that the addition of SC did not significantly impact myogenesis and innervation in this model. The implanted motor nerve branch may have played a more significant role than the presence of SC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhou Xu
- Laboratory for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery, University Hospital of Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Germany
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
| | - Andreas Arkudas
- Laboratory for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery, University Hospital of Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Muhammad Azeem Munawar
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Institute of Polymer Materials, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Dirk W Schubert
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Institute of Polymer Materials, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Tobias Fey
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Institute of Glass and Ceramics, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Volker Weisbach
- Department of Transfusion Medicine, University Hospital of Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Lilly M Mengen
- Laboratory for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery, University Hospital of Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Raymund E Horch
- Laboratory for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery, University Hospital of Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Aijia Cai
- Laboratory for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Plastic and Hand Surgery, University Hospital of Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Germany
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Aparicio GI, Monje PV. Human Schwann Cells in vitro I. Nerve Tissue Processing, Pre-degeneration, Isolation, and Culturing of Primary Cells. Bio Protoc 2023; 13:e4748. [PMID: 38023787 PMCID: PMC10665635 DOI: 10.21769/bioprotoc.4748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Revised: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
This paper presents versatile protocols to prepare primary human Schwann cell (hSC) cultures from mature peripheral nervous system tissues, including fascicles from long spinal nerves, nerve roots, and ganglia. This protocol starts with a description of nerve tissue procurement, handling, and dissection to obtain tissue sections suitable for hSC isolation and culturing. A description follows on how to disintegrate the nerve tissue by delayed enzymatic dissociation, plate the initial cell suspensions on a two-dimensional substrate, and culture the primary hSCs. Each section contains detailed procedures, technical notes, and background information to aid investigators in understanding and managing all steps. Some general recommendations are made to optimize the recovery, growth, and purity of the hSC cultures irrespective of the tissue source. These recommendations include: (1) pre-culturing epineurium- and perineurium-free nerve fascicles under conditions of adherence or suspension depending on the size of the explants to facilitate the release of proliferative, in vitro-activated hSCs; (2) plating the initial cell suspensions as individual droplets on a laminin-coated substrate to expedite cell adhesion and thereby increase the recovery of viable cells; and (3) culturing the fascicles (pre-degeneration step) and the cells derived therefrom in mitogen- and serum-supplemented medium to accelerate hSC dedifferentiation and promote mitogenesis before and after tissue dissociation, respectively. The hSC cultures obtained as suggested in this protocol are suitable for assorted basic and translational research applications. With the appropriate adaptations, donor-relevant hSC cultures can be prepared using fresh or postmortem tissue biospecimens of a wide range of types and sizes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela I. Aparicio
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
| | - Paula V. Monje
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
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Monje PV. Human Schwann Cells in vitro II. Passaging, Purification, Banking, and Labeling of Established Cultures. Bio Protoc 2023; 13:e4882. [PMID: 38023793 PMCID: PMC10665714 DOI: 10.21769/bioprotoc.4882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
This manuscript describes step-by-step procedures to establish and manage fresh and cryopreserved cultures of nerve-derived human Schwann cells (hSCs) at the desired scale. Adaptable protocols are provided to propagate hSC cultures through serial passaging and perform routine manipulations such as enzymatic dissociation, purification, cryogenic preservation, live-cell labeling, and gene delivery. Expanded hSCs cultures are metabolically active, proliferative, and phenotypically stable for at least three consecutive passages. Cell yields are expected to be variable as determined by the rate of growth of individual batches and the rounds of subculture. The purity, however, can be maintained high at >95% hSC regardless of passage. The cells obtained in this manner are suitable for various applications, including small drug screens, in vitro modeling of neurodevelopmental processes, and cell transplantation. One caveat of this protocol is that continued expansion of same-batch hSC populations is eventually restricted due to senescence-linked growth arrest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula V. Monje
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
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Leisz S, Klause CH, Becker AL, Scheer M, Simmermacher S, Strauss C, Scheller C. Establishment of vestibular schwannoma primary cell cultures obtained from cavitron ultrasonic surgical aspirator tissue material. J Neurosci Methods 2023; 397:109955. [PMID: 37611876 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneumeth.2023.109955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vestibular schwannoma (VS) is a benign tumor arising from the Schwann cells of the eighth cranial nerve. The complexity in treatment is associated with unpredictable progression of this tumor. Some of the VS do not alter for years, while others rapidly increase in size. The mechanisms behind size progression are not well studied. Furthermore, despite several studies, there is no pharmacological treatment available for sporadic VS. Therefore, in vitro models are essential tools to study the cellular and molecular processes of VS. In addition, patient-derived cell cultures are important for substance screening to investigate pharmacological approaches in vitro. NEW METHOD This study presents a simple and fast method for culturing VS cells from patient tissue material obtained using a cavitron ultrasonic surgical aspirator (CUSA). In addition, the cells were characterized based on the expression of schwannoma markers, growth properties and screened for fibroblast contamination. RESULT We could show that CUSA obtained material is a suitable resource for isolation of VS primary cultures and enables real time analysis on living cells. COMPARISON WITH EXISTING METHODS To date, only a few protocols are available for culturing VS cells from patient tissue material. A disadvantage of these methods is the relatively large amount of tissue needed to obtain the primary cells, which can be difficult, especially in small VS. By obtaining the cells from the CUSA, there is the possibility to establish a primary culture even with limited material. CONCLUSION This approach could be particularly useful for testing substances that represent candidates for drug therapy of vestibular schwannoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Leisz
- Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Medical Faculty, Department of Neurosurgery, Ernst-Grube-Str. 40, 06120 Halle (Saale), Germany.
| | - Clara Helene Klause
- Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Medical Faculty, Department of Neurosurgery, Ernst-Grube-Str. 40, 06120 Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Anna-Louisa Becker
- Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Medical Faculty, Department of Neurosurgery, Ernst-Grube-Str. 40, 06120 Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Maximilian Scheer
- Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Medical Faculty, Department of Neurosurgery, Ernst-Grube-Str. 40, 06120 Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Sebastian Simmermacher
- Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Medical Faculty, Department of Neurosurgery, Ernst-Grube-Str. 40, 06120 Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Christian Strauss
- Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Medical Faculty, Department of Neurosurgery, Ernst-Grube-Str. 40, 06120 Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Christian Scheller
- Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Medical Faculty, Department of Neurosurgery, Ernst-Grube-Str. 40, 06120 Halle (Saale), Germany
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Vallejo FA, Diaz A, Errante EL, Smartz T, Khan A, Silvera R, Brooks AE, Lee YS, Burks SS, Levi AD. Systematic review of the therapeutic use of Schwann cells in the repair of peripheral nerve injuries: Advancements from animal studies to clinical trials. Front Cell Neurosci 2022; 16:929593. [PMID: 35966198 PMCID: PMC9372346 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2022.929593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To systematically evaluate the literature on the therapeutic use of Schwann cells (SC) in the repair of peripheral nerve injuries. Methods The Cochrane Library and PubMed databases were searched using terms [(“peripheral nerve injury” AND “Schwann cell” AND “regeneration”) OR (“peripheral nerve injuries”)]. Studies published from 2008 to 2022 were eligible for inclusion in the present study. Only studies presenting data from in-vivo investigations utilizing SCs in the repair of peripheral nerve injuries qualified for review. Studies attempting repair of a gap of ≥10 mm were included. Lastly, studies needed to have some measure of quantifiable regenerative outcome data such as histomorphometry, immunohistochemical, electrophysiology, or other functional outcomes. Results A search of the PubMed and Cochrane databases revealed 328 studies. After screening using the abstracts and methods, 17 studies were found to meet our inclusion criteria. Good SC adherence and survival in conduit tubes across various studies was observed. Improvement in morphological and functional outcomes with the use of SCs in long gap peripheral nerve injuries was observed in nearly all studies. Conclusion Based on contemporary literature, SCs have demonstrated clear potential in the repair of peripheral nerve injury in animal studies. It has yet to be determined which nerve conduit or graft will prove superior for delivery and retention of SCs for nerve regeneration. Recent developments in isolation and culturing techniques will enable further translational utilization of SCs in future clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frederic A. Vallejo
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Anthony Diaz
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Connecticut, Farmington, CT, United States
| | - Emily L. Errante
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Taylor Smartz
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Aisha Khan
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
- Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Risset Silvera
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
- Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Adriana E. Brooks
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
- Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Yee-Shuan Lee
- Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Stephen Shelby Burks
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
- Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Allan D. Levi
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
- Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
- *Correspondence: Allan D. Levi
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Fu H, Hu D, Chen J, Wang Q, Zhang Y, Qi C, Yu T. Repair of the Injured Spinal Cord by Schwann Cell Transplantation. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:800513. [PMID: 35250447 PMCID: PMC8891437 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.800513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) can result in sensorimotor impairments or disability. Studies of the cellular response to SCI have increased our understanding of nerve regenerative failure following spinal cord trauma. Biological, engineering and rehabilitation strategies for repairing the injured spinal cord have shown impressive results in SCI models of both rodents and non-human primates. Cell transplantation, in particular, is becoming a highly promising approach due to the cells’ capacity to provide multiple benefits at the molecular, cellular, and circuit levels. While various cell types have been investigated, we focus on the use of Schwann cells (SCs) to promote SCI repair in this review. Transplantation of SCs promotes functional recovery in animal models and is safe for use in humans with subacute SCI. The rationales for the therapeutic use of SCs for SCI include enhancement of axon regeneration, remyelination of newborn or sparing axons, regulation of the inflammatory response, and maintenance of the survival of damaged tissue. However, little is known about the molecular mechanisms by which transplanted SCs exert a reparative effect on SCI. Moreover, SC-based therapeutic strategies face considerable challenges in preclinical studies. These issues must be clarified to make SC transplantation a feasible clinical option. In this review, we summarize the recent advances in SC transplantation for SCI, and highlight proposed mechanisms and challenges of SC-mediated therapy. The sparse information available on SC clinical application in patients with SCI is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haitao Fu
- Department of Sports Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Die Hu
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Qingdao Eye Hospital, Shandong Eye Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Qingdao, China
| | - Jinli Chen
- Department of Sports Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Qizun Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Yingze Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Biomechanics of Hebei Province, Department of Trauma Emergency Center, The Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Orthopaedics Research Institution of Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Chao Qi
- Department of Sports Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
- *Correspondence: Chao Qi,
| | - Tengbo Yu
- Department of Sports Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
- Tengbo Yu,
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Kaufman MR, Ferro N, Paulin E. Phrenic nerve paralysis and phrenic nerve reconstruction surgery. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2022; 189:271-292. [PMID: 36031309 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-323-91532-8.00003-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Phrenic nerve injury results in paralysis of the diaphragm muscle, the primary generator of an inspiratory effort, as well as a stabilizing muscle involved in postural control and spinal alignment. Unilateral deficits often result in exertional dyspnea, orthopnea, and sleep-disordered breathing, whereas oxygen or ventilator dependency can occur with bilateral paralysis. Common etiologies of phrenic injuries include cervical trauma, iatrogenic injury in the neck or chest, and neuralgic amyotrophy. Many patients have no identifiable etiology and are considered to have idiopathic paralysis. Diagnostic evaluation requires radiographic and pulmonary function testing, as well as electrodiagnostic assessment to quantitate the nerve deficit and determine the extent of denervation atrophy. Treatment for symptomatic diaphragm paralysis has traditionally been limited. Medical therapies and nocturnal positive airway pressure may provide some benefit. Surgical repair of the nerve injury to restore functional diaphragmatic activity, termed phrenic nerve reconstruction, is a safe and effective alternative to static repositioning of the diaphragm (diaphragm plication), in properly selected patients. Phrenic nerve reconstruction has increasingly become a standard surgical treatment for diaphragm paralysis due to phrenic nerve injury. A multidisciplinary approach at specialty referral centers combining diagnostic evaluation, surgical treatment, and rehabilitation is required to achieve optimal long-term outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew R Kaufman
- Institute for Advanced Reconstruction, Shrewsbury, NJ, United States; Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, UCLA Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States.
| | - Nicole Ferro
- Institute for Advanced Reconstruction, Shrewsbury, NJ, United States
| | - Ethan Paulin
- Institute for Advanced Reconstruction, Shrewsbury, NJ, United States
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Monje PV, Bacallao K, Aparicio GI, Lalwani A. Heregulin Activity Assays for Residual Testing of Cell Therapy Products. Biol Proced Online 2021; 23:22. [PMID: 34772336 PMCID: PMC8590303 DOI: 10.1186/s12575-021-00157-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 10/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Heregulin is a ligand for the protooncogene product ErbB/HER that acts as a key mitogenic factor for human Schwann cells (hSCs). Heregulin is required for sustained hSC growth in vitro but must be thoroughly removed before cell collection for transplantation due to potential safety concerns. The goal of this study was to develop simple cell-based assays to assess the effectiveness of heregulin addition to and removal from aliquots of hSC culture medium. These bioassays were based on the capacity of a β1-heregulin peptide to elicit ErbB/HER receptor signaling in adherent ErbB2+/ErbB3+ cells. Results Western blotting was used to measure the activity of three different β1-heregulin/ErbB-activated kinases (ErbB3/HER3, ERK/MAPK and Akt/PKB) using phospho-specific antibodies against key activating residues. The duration, dose-dependency and specificity of β1-heregulin-initiated kinase phosphorylation were investigated, and controls were implemented for assay optimization and reproducibility to detect β1-heregulin activity in the nanomolar range. Results from these assays showed that the culture medium from transplantable hSCs elicited no detectable activation of the aforementioned kinases in independent rounds of testing, indicating that the implemented measures can ensure that the final hSC product is devoid of bioactive β1-heregulin molecules prior to transplantation. Conclusions These assays may be valuable to detect impurities such as undefined soluble factors or factors for which other biochemical or biological assays are not yet available. Our workflow can be modified as necessary to determine the presence of ErbB/HER, ERK, and Akt activators other than β1-heregulin using native samples, such as fresh isolates from cell- or tissue extracts in addition to culture medium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula V Monje
- Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Department of Neurological Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.
| | - Ketty Bacallao
- Interdisciplinary Stem Cell Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Gabriela I Aparicio
- Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Department of Neurological Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.,Instituto de Investigaciones Biotecnológicas "Rodolfo A. Ugalde", Universidad Nacional de San Martín and Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (IIBio-UNSAM-CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Anil Lalwani
- Cell and Gene Therapy CMC and Regulatory Advisor, Boulder, CO, USA
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Monje PV, Deng L, Xu XM. Human Schwann Cell Transplantation for Spinal Cord Injury: Prospects and Challenges in Translational Medicine. Front Cell Neurosci 2021; 15:690894. [PMID: 34220455 PMCID: PMC8249939 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2021.690894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The benefits of transplanting cultured Schwann cells (SCs) for the treatment of spinal cord injury (SCI) have been systematically investigated in experimental animals since the early 1990s. Importantly, human SC (hSC) transplantation for SCI has advanced to clinical testing and safety has been established via clinical trials conducted in the USA and abroad. However, multiple barriers must be overcome to enable accessible and effective treatments for SCI patients. This review presents available information on hSC transplantation for SCI with the intention to uncover gaps in our knowledge and discuss areas for future development. To this end, we introduce the historical progression of the work that supports existing and prospective clinical initiatives and explain the reasons for the choice of hSCs while also addressing their limitations as cell therapy products. A search of the relevant literature revealed that rat SCs have served as a preclinical model of reference since the onset of investigations, and that hSC transplants are relatively understudied, possibly due to the sophisticated resources and expertise needed for the traditional processing of hSC cultures from human nerves. In turn, we reason that additional experimentation and a reexamination of the available data are needed to understand the therapeutic value of hSC transplants taking into consideration that the manufacturing of the hSCs themselves may require further development for extended uses in basic research and clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula V. Monje
- Spinal Cord and Brain Injury Research Group, Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Lingxiao Deng
- Spinal Cord and Brain Injury Research Group, Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Xiao-Ming Xu
- Spinal Cord and Brain Injury Research Group, Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
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Huang Z, Powell R, Phillips JB, Haastert-Talini K. Perspective on Schwann Cells Derived from Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells in Peripheral Nerve Tissue Engineering. Cells 2020; 9:E2497. [PMID: 33213068 PMCID: PMC7698557 DOI: 10.3390/cells9112497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2020] [Revised: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Schwann cells play a crucial role in successful peripheral nerve repair and regeneration by supporting both axonal growth and myelination. Schwann cells are therefore a feasible option for cell therapy treatment of peripheral nerve injury. However, sourcing human Schwann cells at quantities required for development beyond research is challenging. Due to their availability, rapid in vitro expansion, survival, and integration within the host tissue, stem cells have attracted considerable attention as candidate cell therapies. Among them, induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) with the associated prospects for personalized treatment are a promising therapy to take the leap from bench to bedside. In this critical review, we firstly focus on the current knowledge of the Schwann cell phenotype in regard to peripheral nerve injury, including crosstalk with the immune system during peripheral nerve regeneration. Then, we review iPSC to Schwann cell derivation protocols and the results from recent in vitro and in vivo studies. We finally conclude with some prospects for the use of iPSCs in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhong Huang
- Institute of Neuroanatomy and Cell Biology, Hannover Medical School, 30623 Hannover, Germany;
- Center for Systems Neuroscience (ZSN) Hannover, 30559 Hannover, Germany
| | - Rebecca Powell
- Department of Pharmacology, UCL School of Pharmacy, 29-39 Brunswick Square, London WC1N 1AX, UK;
- UCL Centre for Nerve Engineering, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - James B. Phillips
- Department of Pharmacology, UCL School of Pharmacy, 29-39 Brunswick Square, London WC1N 1AX, UK;
- UCL Centre for Nerve Engineering, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Kirsten Haastert-Talini
- Institute of Neuroanatomy and Cell Biology, Hannover Medical School, 30623 Hannover, Germany;
- Center for Systems Neuroscience (ZSN) Hannover, 30559 Hannover, Germany
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Peng K, Sant D, Andersen N, Silvera R, Camarena V, Piñero G, Graham R, Khan A, Xu XM, Wang G, Monje PV. Magnetic separation of peripheral nerve-resident cells underscores key molecular features of human Schwann cells and fibroblasts: an immunochemical and transcriptomics approach. Sci Rep 2020; 10:18433. [PMID: 33116158 PMCID: PMC7595160 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-74128-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Nerve-derived human Schwann cell (SC) cultures are irreplaceable models for basic and translational research but their use can be limited due to the risk of fibroblast overgrowth. Fibroblasts are an ill-defined population consisting of highly proliferative cells that, contrary to human SCs, do not undergo senescence in culture. We initiated this study by performing an exhaustive immunological and functional characterization of adult nerve-derived human SCs and fibroblasts to reveal their properties and optimize a protocol of magnetic-activated cell sorting (MACS) to separate them effectively both as viable and biologically competent cells. We next used immunofluorescence microscopy imaging, flow cytometry analysis and next generation RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) to unambiguously characterize the post-MACS cell products. High resolution transcriptome profiling revealed the identity of key lineage-specific transcripts and the clearly distinct neural crest and mesenchymal origin of human SCs and fibroblasts, respectively. Our analysis underscored a progenitor- or stem cell-like molecular phenotype in SCs and fibroblasts and the heterogeneity of the fibroblast populations. In addition, pathway analysis of RNA-seq data highlighted putative bidirectional networks of fibroblast-to-SC signaling that predict a complementary, yet seemingly independent contribution of SCs and fibroblasts to nerve regeneration. In sum, combining MACS with immunochemical and transcriptomics approaches provides an ideal workflow to exhaustively assess the identity, the stage of differentiation and functional features of highly purified cells from human peripheral nerve tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaiwen Peng
- Stark Neurosciences Research Institute and Department of Neurological Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Division of Spine Surgery, Department of Orthopedics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - David Sant
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
- University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Natalia Andersen
- The Miami Project To Cure Paralysis, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
- Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de Bahía Blanca (CONICET), Departamento de Biología, Bioquímica y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional del Sur, Bahía Blanca, Argentina
| | - Risset Silvera
- The Miami Project To Cure Paralysis, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
- Interdisciplinary Stem Cell Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Vladimir Camarena
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Gonzalo Piñero
- The Miami Project To Cure Paralysis, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
- Facultad de Farmacia Y Bioquímica, Departamento de Química Biológica, and CONICET, Instituto de Química Y Fisicoquímica Biológicas (IQUIFIB), Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Regina Graham
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Aisha Khan
- The Miami Project To Cure Paralysis, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
- Interdisciplinary Stem Cell Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Xiao-Ming Xu
- Stark Neurosciences Research Institute and Department of Neurological Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Gaofeng Wang
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Paula V Monje
- Stark Neurosciences Research Institute and Department of Neurological Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA.
- The Miami Project To Cure Paralysis, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.
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12
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Schwann Cell Cultures: Biology, Technology and Therapeutics. Cells 2020; 9:cells9081848. [PMID: 32781699 PMCID: PMC7465416 DOI: 10.3390/cells9081848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Revised: 08/01/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Schwann cell (SC) cultures from experimental animals and human donors can be prepared using nearly any type of nerve at any stage of maturation to render stage- and patient-specific populations. Methods to isolate, purify, expand in number, and differentiate SCs from adult, postnatal and embryonic sources are efficient and reproducible as these have resulted from accumulated refinements introduced over many decades of work. Albeit some exceptions, SCs can be passaged extensively while maintaining their normal proliferation and differentiation controls. Due to their lineage commitment and strong resistance to tumorigenic transformation, SCs are safe for use in therapeutic approaches in the peripheral and central nervous systems. This review summarizes the evolution of work that led to the robust technologies used today in SC culturing along with the main features of the primary and expanded SCs that make them irreplaceable models to understand SC biology in health and disease. Traditional and emerging approaches in SC culture are discussed in light of their prospective applications. Lastly, some basic assumptions in vitro SC models are identified in an attempt to uncover the combined value of old and new trends in culture protocols and the cellular products that are derived.
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13
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Yi S, Zhang Y, Gu X, Huang L, Zhang K, Qian T, Gu X. Application of stem cells in peripheral nerve regeneration. BURNS & TRAUMA 2020; 8:tkaa002. [PMID: 32346538 PMCID: PMC7175760 DOI: 10.1093/burnst/tkaa002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2019] [Revised: 01/07/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Traumatic peripheral nerve injury is a worldwide clinical issue with high morbidity. The severity of peripheral nerve injury can be classified as neurapraxia, axonotmesis or neurotmesis, according to Seddon's classification, or five different degrees according to Sunderland's classification. Patients with neurotmesis suffer from a complete transection of peripheral nerve stumps and are often in need of surgical repair of nerve defects. The applications of autologous nerve grafts as the golden standard for peripheral nerve transplantation meet some difficulties, including donor nerve sacrifice and nerve mismatch. Attempts have been made to construct tissue-engineered nerve grafts as supplements or even substitutes for autologous nerve grafts to bridge peripheral nerve defects. The incorporation of stem cells as seed cells into the biomaterial-based scaffolds increases the effectiveness of tissue-engineered nerve grafts and largely boosts the regenerative process. Numerous stem cells, including embryonic stem cells, neural stem cells, bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells, adipose stem cells, skin-derived precursor stem cells and induced pluripotent stem cells, have been used in neural tissue engineering. In the current review, recent trials of stem cell-based tissue-engineered nerve grafts have been summarized; potential concerns and perspectives of stem cell therapeutics have also been contemplated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheng Yi
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Jiangsu Clinical Medicine Center of Tissue Engineering and Nerve Injury Repair, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Nuclear Medicine Department, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiaokun Gu
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Jiangsu Clinical Medicine Center of Tissue Engineering and Nerve Injury Repair, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Li Huang
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Jiangsu Clinical Medicine Center of Tissue Engineering and Nerve Injury Repair, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Kairong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Jiangsu Clinical Medicine Center of Tissue Engineering and Nerve Injury Repair, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Tianmei Qian
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Jiangsu Clinical Medicine Center of Tissue Engineering and Nerve Injury Repair, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiaosong Gu
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Jiangsu Clinical Medicine Center of Tissue Engineering and Nerve Injury Repair, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
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14
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Garcia-Diaz B, Baron-Van Evercooren A. Schwann cells: Rescuers of central demyelination. Glia 2020; 68:1945-1956. [PMID: 32027054 DOI: 10.1002/glia.23788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2019] [Revised: 01/15/2020] [Accepted: 01/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The presence of peripheral myelinating cells in the central nervous system (CNS) has gained the neurobiologist attention over the years. Despite the confirmed presence of Schwann cells in the CNS in pathological conditions, and the long list of their beneficial effects on central remyelination, the cues that impede or allow Schwann cells to successfully conquer and remyelinate central axons remain partially undiscovered. A better knowledge of these factors stands out as crucial to foresee a rational therapeutic approach for the use of Schwann cells in CNS repair. Here, we review the diverse origins of Schwann cells into the CNS, both peripheral and central, as well as the CNS components that inhibit Schwann survival and migration into the central parenchyma. Namely, we analyze the astrocyte- and the myelin-derived components that restrict Schwann cells into the CNS. Finally, we highlight the unveiled mode of invasion of these peripheral cells through the central environment, using blood vessels as scaffolds to pave their ways toward demyelinated lesions. In short, this review presents the so far uncovered knowledge of this complex CNS-peripheral nervous system (PNS) relationship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatriz Garcia-Diaz
- Unidad de Gestión Clínica de Neurociencias, IBIMA, Hospital Regional Universitario de Málaga, Universidad de Málaga, Málaga, Spain.,Institut du Cerveau et de la Moelle Epinière-Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, INSERM, U1127, CNRS, Paris, France.,Sorbonne Universités, Université Pierre et Marie Curie Paris 06, Paris, France
| | - Anne Baron-Van Evercooren
- Institut du Cerveau et de la Moelle Epinière-Groupe Hospitalier Pitié-Salpêtrière, INSERM, U1127, CNRS, Paris, France.,Sorbonne Universités, Université Pierre et Marie Curie Paris 06, Paris, France
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15
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Monje PV. The properties of human Schwann cells: Lessons from in vitro culture and transplantation studies. Glia 2020; 68:797-810. [PMID: 32027424 DOI: 10.1002/glia.23793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2019] [Revised: 01/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Human Schwann cells (hSCs) can be isolated directly from peripheral nerve and cultured using methods similar to those used for SCs from other species. Yet, important interspecies differences are revealed when the primary or expanded hSCs are compared to their nonhuman counterparts. This review addresses the special properties of nerve-derived hSCs that have resulted to date from both in vitro studies and in vivo research on cell transplantation in animal models and human subjects. A consensus has yet to emerge about the essential attributes of cultured normal hSCs. Thus, an emphasis is placed on the importance of validating hSC cultures by means of purity, identity, and biological activity to reliably use them as in vitro models of the SC phenotype and cell therapy products for injury repair. Combining traditional immunological methods, high-resolution omics approaches, and assorted cell-based assays is so far the best approach to unequivocally identify hSC populations obtained by direct isolation or derivation from stem cells. Special considerations are required to understand and manage the variability and heterogeneity proper of donor batches, as well as to evaluate risk factors. This is particularly important if the intended use of the hSCs is implantation in the human body, diagnosis of disease, or drug testing aimed at targeting any aspect of SC function in human patients. To conclude, in view of their unique properties, new concepts and methods are needed to better understand the biology of hSCs and exploit their full potential in basic science and regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula V Monje
- The Department of Neurological Surgery, Indiana University, Indianapolis, Indiana
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16
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Gordon T, Wood P, Sulaiman OAR. Long-Term Denervated Rat Schwann Cells Retain Their Capacity to Proliferate and to Myelinate Axons in vitro. Front Cell Neurosci 2019; 12:511. [PMID: 30666188 PMCID: PMC6330764 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2018.00511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2018] [Accepted: 12/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Functional recovery is poor after peripheral nerve injury and delayed surgical repair or when nerves must regenerate over long distances to reinnervate distant targets. A reduced capacity of Schwann cells (SCs) in chronically denervated distal nerve stumps to support and interact with regenerating axons may account for the poor outcome. In an in vitro system, we examined the capacity of adult, long-term denervated rat SCs to proliferate and to myelinate neurites in co-cultures with fetal dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons. Non-neuronal cells were counted immediately after their isolation from the distal sciatic nerve stumps that were subjected to acute denervation of 7 days or chronic denervation of either 7 weeks or 17 months. Thereafter, equal numbers of the non-neural cells were co-cultured with purified dissociated DRG neurons for 5 days. The co-cultures were then treated with 3H-Thymidine for 24 h to quantitate SC proliferation with S100 immunostaining and autoradiography. After a 24-day period of co-culture, Sudan Black staining was used to visualize and count myelin segments that were elaborated around DRG neurites by the SCs. Isolated non-neural cells from 7-week chronically denervated nerve stumps increased 2.5-fold in number compared to ~2 million in 7 day acutely denervated stumps. There were only <0.2 million cells in the 17-week chronically denervated stumps. Nonetheless, these chronically denervated SCs maintained their proliferative capacity although the capacity was reduced to 30% in the 17-month chronically denervated distal nerve stumps. Moreover, the chronically denervated SCs retained their capacity to myelinate DRG neurites: there was extensive myelination of the neurites by the acutely and chronically denervated SCs after 24 days co-culture. There were no significant differences in the extent of myelination. We conclude that the low numbers of surviving SCs in chronically denervated distal nerve stumps retain their ability to respond to axonal signals to divide and to elaborate myelin. However, their low numbers consequent to their poor survival and their reduced capacity to proliferate account, at least in part, for the poor functional recovery after delayed surgical repair of injured nerve and/or the repair of injured nerves far from their target organs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tessa Gordon
- Division of Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Patrick Wood
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis/Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Miami School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Olawale A R Sulaiman
- Department of Neurosurgery, Ochsner Medical Center, New Orleans, LA, United States
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17
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Chemical Conversion of Human Fibroblasts into Functional Schwann Cells. Methods Mol Biol 2018. [PMID: 29546704 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-7649-2_8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2023]
Abstract
Direct conversion of one somatic cell type into another represents a promising approach to obtain patient-specific cells for numerous applications. Here, we describe a method allowing the transdifferentiation of human postnatal fibroblasts into functional Schwann cells via a transient progenitor stage. The conversion process is solely based on chemical treatment and does not require the overexpression of ectopic genes. The resulting induced Schwann cells (iSCs) can be characterized by expression of Schwann cell-specific proteins and neuro-supportive and myelination capacity in vitro. This strategy allows to obtain mature Schwann cells from human fibroblasts under chemically defined conditions without the introduction of ectopic genes.
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18
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Monje PV, Sant D, Wang G. Phenotypic and Functional Characteristics of Human Schwann Cells as Revealed by Cell-Based Assays and RNA-SEQ. Mol Neurobiol 2018; 55:6637-6660. [PMID: 29327207 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-017-0837-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2017] [Accepted: 12/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
This study comprehensively addresses the phenotype, function, and whole transcriptome of primary human and rodent Schwann cells (SCs) and highlights key species-specific features beyond the expected donor variability that account for the differential ability of human SCs to proliferate, differentiate, and interact with axons in vitro. Contrary to rat SCs, human SCs were insensitive to mitogenic factors other than neuregulin and presented phenotypic variants at various stages of differentiation, along with a mixture of proliferating and senescent cells, under optimal growth-promoting conditions. The responses of human SCs to cAMP-induced differentiation featured morphological changes and cell cycle exit without a concomitant increase in myelin-related proteins and lipids. Human SCs efficiently extended processes along those of other SCs (human or rat) but failed to do so when placed in co-culture with sensory neurons under conditions supportive of myelination. Indeed, axon contact-dependent human SC alignment, proliferation, and differentiation were not observed and could not be overcome by growth factor supplementation. Strikingly, RNA-seq data revealed that ~ 44 of the transcriptome contained differentially expressed genes in human and rat SCs. A bioinformatics approach further highlighted that representative SC-specific transcripts encoding myelin-related and axon growth-promoting proteins were significantly affected and that a deficient expression of key transducers of cAMP and adhesion signaling explained the fairly limited potential of human SCs to differentiate and respond to axonal cues. These results confirmed the significance of combining traditional bioassays and high-resolution genomics methods to characterize human SCs and identify genes predictive of cell function and therapeutic value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula V Monje
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis and Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1095 NW 14th Terrace, Miami, FL, 33136, USA.
| | - David Sant
- John P. Hussman Institute for Human Genomics, Dr. John T. Macdonald Foundation Department of Human Genetics, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Gaofeng Wang
- John P. Hussman Institute for Human Genomics, Dr. John T. Macdonald Foundation Department of Human Genetics, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, 33136, USA.,Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
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19
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Ravelo KM, Andersen ND, Monje PV. Magnetic-Activated Cell Sorting for the Fast and Efficient Separation of Human and Rodent Schwann Cells from Mixed Cell Populations. Methods Mol Biol 2018; 1739:87-109. [PMID: 29546702 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-7649-2_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
To date, magnetic-activated cell sorting (MACS) remains a powerful method to isolate distinct cell populations based on differential cell surface labeling. Optimized direct and indirect MACS protocols for cell immunolabeling are presented here as methods to divest Schwann cell (SC) cultures of contaminating cells (specifically, fibroblast cells) and isolate SC populations at different stages of differentiation. This chapter describes (1) the preparation of single-cell suspensions from established human and rat SC cultures, (2) the design and application of cell selection strategies using SC-specific (p75NGFR, O4, and O1) and fibroblast-specific (Thy-1) markers, and (3) the characterization of both the pre- and post-sorting cell populations. A simple protocol for the growth of hybridoma cell cultures as a source of monoclonal antibodies for cell surface immunolabeling of SCs and fibroblasts is provided as a cost-effective alternative for commercially available products. These steps allow for the timely and efficient recovery of purified SC populations without compromising the viability and biological activity of the cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristine M Ravelo
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Natalia D Andersen
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Paula V Monje
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.
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20
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Andersen ND, Monje PV. Isolation, Culture, and Cryopreservation of Adult Rodent Schwann Cells Derived from Immediately Dissociated Teased Fibers. Methods Mol Biol 2018; 1739:49-66. [PMID: 29546700 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-7649-2_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Adult Schwann cell (SC) cultures are usually derived from nerves subjected to a lengthy step of pre-degeneration to facilitate enzymatic digestion and recovery of viable cells. To overcome the need for pre-degeneration, we developed a method that allows the isolation of adult rat sciatic nerve SCs immediately after tissue harvesting. This method combines the advantages of implementing a rapid enzymatic dissociation of the nerve fibers and a straightforward separation of cells versus myelin that improves both cell yield and viability. Essentially, the method consists of (1) acute dissociation with collagenase and dispase immediately after removal of the epineurium layer and extensive teasing of the nerve fibers, (2) removal of myelin debris by selective attachment of the cells to a highly adhesive poly-L-lysine/laminin substrate, (3) expansion of the initial SC population in medium containing chemical mitogens, and (4) preparation of cryogenic stocks for transfer or delayed experimentation. This protocol allows for the procurement of homogeneous SC cultures deprived of myelin and fibroblast growth as soon as 3-4 days after nerve tissue dissection. SC cultures can be used as such for experimentation or subjected to consecutive rounds of expansion prior to use, purification, or cryopreservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia D Andersen
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Paula V Monje
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.
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21
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Weiss T, Taschner-Mandl S, Ambros PF, Ambros IM. Detailed Protocols for the Isolation, Culture, Enrichment and Immunostaining of Primary Human Schwann Cells. Methods Mol Biol 2018; 1739:67-86. [PMID: 29546701 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-7649-2_5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
This chapter emphasizes detailed protocols for the effective establishment of highly enriched human Schwann cell cultures and their characterization via immunostaining. The Schwann cells are isolated from immediately dissociated fascicle tissue and expanded prior to purification. Two purification methods are described that use either fluorescence-activated cell sorting for the Schwann cell marker TNR16 (p75NTR) or a less-manipulative two-step enrichment exploiting the differential adhesion properties of Schwann cells and fibroblasts, which is especially useful for low Schwann cell numbers. In addition, a method to determine Schwann cell purity via stained cytospin slides is introduced. Together with an immunofluorescence staining procedure for the combined analysis of extra- and intracellular markers, this chapter provides a solid basis to study human primary Schwann cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamara Weiss
- Children's Cancer Research Institute, Vienna, Austria.
| | | | | | - Inge M Ambros
- Children's Cancer Research Institute, Vienna, Austria
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22
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Wang G, Ma Z, Cao L, Yan G, Wang Y, Jin Y, Shen H, Zhang Y, Xu X, Chen X, Shen Z. A novel method for obtaining highly enriched Schwann cell populations from mature monkey nerves based on in vitro pre‑degeneration. Mol Med Rep 2017; 16:6600-6607. [PMID: 28901508 PMCID: PMC5865804 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2017.7427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2016] [Accepted: 07/12/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Schwann cells (SCs) are indispensable for cell therapy and tissue engineering of the peripheral nervous system. Easy access to activated, highly proliferative SCs is necessary for clinical applications. The present study developed a fast, efficient method for obtaining highly purified SCs from the peripheral nerve of a mature Rhesus monkey. The common peroneal nerves of 4-year-old Rhesus monkeys were harvested and subjected to in vitro pre-degeneration in a modified SC culture medium (SCCM). The nerve pieces were subsequently treated enzymatically to dissociate the cells and then cultured for 2 days in SCCM. Cultured cells were treated with purification medium containing Ara-C to assist in restricting the overgrowth of fibroblast-like cells, for 24 h. After another 24-h cultivation period, the cells were subsequently treated with a multiplex collagenase, which enabled SC detachment over fibroblast detachment, and thereby facilitated SC isolation. Finally, SCs were cultured in SCCM. The cell yield was determined by cell counting following enzyme digestion and SC purity was determined from the percentage of SCs with respect to the total number of cells. Following purification, 96.3±3.9% of cells were identified as SCs. In vitro pre-degeneration in the presence of basic-fibroblast growth factor, heregulin β1 and forskolin maximized the purity and yield of SCs that could be obtained from monkey peroneal nerves. The present study identified a novel technique that can efficiently isolate and purify SCs from mature monkey nerves based on in vitro pre-degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gangyang Wang
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, P.R. China
| | - Zhengwen Ma
- Department of Laboratory Animal Science, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, P.R. China
| | - Lingling Cao
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, P.R. China
| | - Guofeng Yan
- Department of Laboratory Animal Science, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, P.R. China
| | - Yang Wang
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, P.R. China
| | - Yuqing Jin
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, P.R. China
| | - Hua Shen
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, P.R. China
| | - Yiping Zhang
- Norton Neuroscience Institute, Norton Healthcare, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
| | - Xiaoming Xu
- Spinal Cord and Brain Injury Research Group, Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Department of Neurological Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Xuejin Chen
- Department of Laboratory Animal Science, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, P.R. China
| | - Zunli Shen
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, P.R. China
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23
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Bastidas J, Athauda G, De La Cruz G, Chan WM, Golshani R, Berrocal Y, Henao M, Lalwani A, Mannoji C, Assi M, Otero PA, Khan A, Marcillo AE, Norenberg M, Levi AD, Wood PM, Guest JD, Dietrich WD, Bartlett Bunge M, Pearse DD. Human Schwann cells exhibit long-term cell survival, are not tumorigenic and promote repair when transplanted into the contused spinal cord. Glia 2017; 65:1278-1301. [PMID: 28543541 DOI: 10.1002/glia.23161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2016] [Revised: 04/07/2017] [Accepted: 04/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The transplantation of rodent Schwann cells (SCs) provides anatomical and functional restitution in a variety of spinal cord injury (SCI) models, supporting the recent translation of SCs to phase 1 clinical trials for human SCI. Whereas human (Hu)SCs have been examined experimentally in a complete SCI transection paradigm, to date the reported behavior of SCs when transplanted after a clinically relevant contusive SCI has been restricted to the use of rodent SCs. Here, in a xenotransplant, contusive SCI paradigm, the survival, biodistribution, proliferation and tumorgenicity as well as host responses to HuSCs, cultured according to a protocol analogous to that developed for clinical application, were investigated. HuSCs persisted within the contused nude rat spinal cord through 6 months after transplantation (longest time examined), exhibited low cell proliferation, displayed no evidence of tumorigenicity and showed a restricted biodistribution to the lesion. Neuropathological examination of the CNS revealed no adverse effects of HuSCs. Animals exhibiting higher numbers of surviving HuSCs within the lesion showed greater volumes of preserved white matter and host rat SC and astrocyte ingress as well as axon ingrowth and myelination. These results demonstrate the safety of HuSCs when employed in a clinically relevant experimental SCI paradigm. Further, signs of a potentially positive influence of HuSC transplants on host tissue pathology were observed. These findings show that HuSCs exhibit a favorable toxicity profile for up to 6 months after transplantation into the contused rat spinal cord, an important outcome for FDA consideration of their use in human clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johana Bastidas
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, The Department of Neurological Surgery, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136
| | - Gagani Athauda
- The Department of Cellular Biology, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, 33199.,The Department of Pharmacology, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, 33199
| | - Gabriela De La Cruz
- Translational Pathology Laboratory, Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Department of Pathology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, 27599
| | - Wai-Man Chan
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, The Department of Neurological Surgery, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136
| | - Roozbeh Golshani
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, The Department of Neurological Surgery, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136
| | - Yerko Berrocal
- The Department of Cellular Biology, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, 33199.,The Department of Pharmacology, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, 33199
| | - Martha Henao
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, The Department of Neurological Surgery, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136
| | - Anil Lalwani
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, The Department of Neurological Surgery, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136
| | - Chikato Mannoji
- The Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Chiba University School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan
| | - Mazen Assi
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, The Department of Neurological Surgery, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136
| | - P Anthony Otero
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, The Department of Neurological Surgery, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136
| | - Aisha Khan
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, The Department of Neurological Surgery, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136
| | - Alexander E Marcillo
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, The Department of Neurological Surgery, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136
| | - Michael Norenberg
- The Department of Pathology, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136
| | - Allan D Levi
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, The Department of Neurological Surgery, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136.,The Department of Neurological Surgery, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136
| | - Patrick M Wood
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, The Department of Neurological Surgery, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136
| | - James D Guest
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, The Department of Neurological Surgery, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136.,The Department of Neurological Surgery, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136
| | - W Dalton Dietrich
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, The Department of Neurological Surgery, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136.,The Department of Neurological Surgery, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136.,The Department of Neurology, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136.,The Neuroscience Program, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136.,The Interdisciplinary Stem Cell Institute, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136.,The Department of Cell Biology, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136
| | - Mary Bartlett Bunge
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, The Department of Neurological Surgery, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136.,The Department of Neurological Surgery, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136.,The Neuroscience Program, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136.,The Interdisciplinary Stem Cell Institute, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136.,The Department of Cell Biology, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136
| | - Damien D Pearse
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, The Department of Neurological Surgery, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136.,The Department of Neurological Surgery, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136.,The Neuroscience Program, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136.,The Interdisciplinary Stem Cell Institute, The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, 33136.,Bruce W. Carter Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Miami, Florida, 33136
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24
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Bunge MB, Monje PV, Khan A, Wood PM. From transplanting Schwann cells in experimental rat spinal cord injury to their transplantation into human injured spinal cord in clinical trials. PROGRESS IN BRAIN RESEARCH 2017; 231:107-133. [PMID: 28554394 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pbr.2016.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Among the potential therapies designed to repair the injured spinal cord is cell transplantation, notably the use of autologous adult human Schwann cells (SCs). Here, we detail some of the critical research accomplished over the last four decades to establish a foundation that enables these cells to be tested in clinical trials. New culture systems allowed novel information to be gained about SCs, including discovering ways to stimulate their proliferation to acquire adequately large numbers for transplantation into the injured human spinal cord. Transplantation of rat SCs into rat models of spinal cord injury has demonstrated that SCs promote repair of injured spinal cord. Additional work required to gain approval from the Food and Drug Administration for the first SC trial in the Miami Project is disclosed. This trial and a second one now underway are described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary B Bunge
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States; Department of Cell Biology, University of Miami Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States; Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Miami Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States.
| | - Paula V Monje
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States; Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Miami Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Aisha Khan
- The Interdisciplinary Stem Cell Institute, University of Miami Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Patrick M Wood
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States; Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Miami Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
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25
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Gersey ZC, Burks SS, Anderson KD, Dididze M, Khan A, Dietrich WD, Levi AD. First human experience with autologous Schwann cells to supplement sciatic nerve repair: report of 2 cases with long-term follow-up. Neurosurg Focus 2017; 42:E2. [PMID: 28245668 DOI: 10.3171/2016.12.focus16474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Long-segment injuries to large peripheral nerves present a challenge to surgeons because insufficient donor tissue limits repair. Multiple supplemental approaches have been investigated, including the use of Schwann cells (SCs). The authors present the first 2 cases using autologous SCs to supplement a peripheral nerve graft repair in humans with long-term follow-up data. METHODS Two patients were enrolled in an FDA-approved trial to assess the safety of using expanded populations of autologous SCs to supplement the repair of long-segment injuries to the sciatic nerve. The mechanism of injury included a boat propeller and a gunshot wound. The SCs were obtained from both the sural nerve and damaged sciatic nerve stump. The SCs were expanded and purified in culture by using heregulin β1 and forskolin. Repair was performed with sural nerve grafts, SCs in suspension, and a Duragen graft to house the construct. Follow-up was 36 and 12 months for the patients in Cases 1 and 2, respectively. RESULTS The patient in Case 1 had a boat propeller injury with complete transection of both sciatic divisions at midthigh. The graft length was approximately 7.5 cm. In the postoperative period the patient regained motor function (Medical Research Council [MRC] Grade 5/5) in the tibial distribution, with partial function in peroneal distribution (MRC Grade 2/5 on dorsiflexion). Partial return of sensory function was also achieved, and neuropathic pain was completely resolved. The patient in Case 2 sustained a gunshot wound to the leg, with partial disruption of the tibial division of the sciatic nerve at the midthigh. The graft length was 5 cm. Postoperatively the patient regained complete motor function of the tibial nerve, with partial return of sensation. Long-term follow-up with both MRI and ultrasound demonstrated nerve graft continuity and the absence of tumor formation at the repair site. CONCLUSIONS Presented here are the first 2 cases in which autologous SCs were used to supplement human peripheral nerve repair in long-segment injury. Both patients had significant improvement in both motor and sensory function with correlative imaging. This study demonstrates preliminary safety and efficacy of SC transplantation for peripheral nerve repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary C Gersey
- Department of Neurological Surgery and the Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
| | - S Shelby Burks
- Department of Neurological Surgery and the Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
| | - Kim D Anderson
- Department of Neurological Surgery and the Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
| | - Marine Dididze
- Department of Neurological Surgery and the Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
| | - Aisha Khan
- Department of Neurological Surgery and the Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
| | - W Dalton Dietrich
- Department of Neurological Surgery and the Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
| | - Allan D Levi
- Department of Neurological Surgery and the Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
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26
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Human eyelid adipose tissue-derived Schwann cells promote regeneration of a transected sciatic nerve. Sci Rep 2017; 7:43248. [PMID: 28256528 PMCID: PMC5335702 DOI: 10.1038/srep43248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2016] [Accepted: 01/23/2017] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Schwann cells (SCs) can promote the regeneration of injured peripheral nerves while the clinical application is limited by donor site complications and the inability to generate an ample amount of cells. In this study, we have isolated human eyelid adipose-derived Schwann cells (hE-SCs) from human eyelid adipose tissue and identified the cell phenotype and function. Using immunofluorescence and H & E staining, we detected subtle nerve fibers and SCs in human eyelid adipose tissue. Immunofluorescence staining indicated that hE-SCs expressed glial markers, such as S100, p75NTR GFAP, Sox10 and Krox20. To explore whether hE-SCs promote the regeneration of injured peripheral nerves in vivo, a Balb/c-nu mice model was used in the study, and mice were randomly assigned to five groups: Matrigel; hE-SCs/P0; hE-SCs/P2; hE-FLCs/P2; and Autograft. After 12 weeks, functional and histological assessments of the regenerated nerves showed that sciatic nerve defect was more effectively repaired in the hE-SCs/P2 group which achieved 66.1 ± 6.5% purity, than the other three groups and recovered to similar level to the Autograft group. These results indicated that hE-SCs can promote the regeneration of injured peripheral nerve and the abundant, easily accessible supply of adipose tissue might be a promising source of SCs for peripheral nerve repair.
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27
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Lim JH, Olby NJ. Generation of pure cultures of autologous Schwann cells by use of biopsy specimens of the dorsal cutaneous branches of the cervical nerves of young adult dogs. Am J Vet Res 2017; 77:1166-74. [PMID: 27668589 DOI: 10.2460/ajvr.77.10.1166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify an optimal technique for isolation, purification, and amplification of Schwann cells (SCs) from biopsy specimens of the dorsal cutaneous branches of the cervical nerves of dogs. SAMPLE Biopsy specimens of dorsal cervical cutaneous nerves from the cadavers of three 1- to 2-year-old dogs. PROCEDURES Nerve specimens were dissected, predegenerated, and dissociated to isolate single cells. After culture to enhance SC growth, cells were immunopurified by use of magnetic beads. Cell purity was evaluated by assessing expression of cell surface antigens p75 (to detect SCs) and CD90 (to detect fibroblasts). Effects of various concentrations of recombinant human glial growth factor 2 (rhGGF2) on SC proliferation were tested. Cell doubling time was assessed in SC cultures with selected concentrations of rhGGF2. RESULTS Mean ± SD wet weight of nerve fascicles obtained from the biopsy specimens was 16.8 ± 2.8 mg. A mean predegeneration period of 8.6 days yielded approximately 6,000 cells/mg of nerve tissue, and primary culture yielded 43,000 cells/mg of nerve tissue in a mean of 11 days, of which 39.9 ± 9.1% expressed p75. Immunopurification with magnetic beads yielded a mean of 85.4 ± 1.9% p75-positive cells. Two passages of subculture with 10μM cytosine arabinoside further enhanced SC purity to a mean of 97.8 ± 1.2% p75-positive cells. Finally, rhGGF2 supplementation at a range of 40 to 100 ng/mL increased the SC proliferation rate up to 3-fold. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE SCs could be cultured from biopsy specimens of dorsal cervical cutaneous nerves and purified and expanded to generate adequate numbers for autologous transplants to treat dogs with spinal cord and peripheral nerve injuries.
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28
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Najafabadi MM, Bayati V, Orazizadeh M, Hashemitabar M, Absalan F. Impact of Cell Density on Differentiation Efficiency of Rat Adipose-derived Stem Cells into Schwann-like Cells. Int J Stem Cells 2016; 9:213-220. [PMID: 27788569 PMCID: PMC5155717 DOI: 10.15283/ijsc16031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/12/2016] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Objectives Schwann-like (SC-like) cells induced from adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) may be one of the ideal alternative cell sources for obtaining Schwann cells (SCs). They can be used for treating peripheral nerve injuries. Co-culture with SCs or exposure to glial growth factors are commonly used for differentiation of ASCs to SC-like cells. However, the effect of initial cell density as an inductive factor on the differentiation potential of ASCs into the SC-like cells has not been yet investigated. Methods and Results ASCs were harvested from rat and characterized. The cells were seeded into the culture flasks at three different initial cell densities i.e. 2×103, 4×103 and 8×103 cells/cm2 an overnight and differentiated toward SC-like cells using glial growth factors. After two weeks, the differentiation rate of ASCs to SC-like cells at different densities was assessed by immunofluorescence, fluorescence-activated cell sorting analysis and real time RT-PCR. Expression of the typical SCs markers, S-100 proteins and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) protein, was observed in all cell densities groups although the number of S100-positive and GFAP-positive cells, and the expression of p75NTR mRNA, another SC marker, were significantly higher at the density of 8×103 cells/cm2 when compared with the other cell densities groups (p<0.001). Conclusions The results suggest that the higher differentiation rate of ASCs to SC-like cells can be obtained at initial cell density of 8×103 cells/cm2, possibly via increased cell-cell interaction and cell density-dependent influence of glial growth factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahtab Maghzi Najafabadi
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.,Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Vahid Bayati
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.,Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Mahmoud Orazizadeh
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.,Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Mahmoud Hashemitabar
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.,Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Forouzan Absalan
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.,Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
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29
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Schuh CM, Hausner T, Redl HR. A therapeutic shock propels Schwann cells to proliferate in peripheral nerve injury. Brain Circ 2016; 2:138-140. [PMID: 30276290 PMCID: PMC6126275 DOI: 10.4103/2394-8108.192520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2016] [Revised: 08/29/2016] [Accepted: 08/29/2016] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Damage to the peripheral nervous system (PNS) is a prevalent issue and represents a great burden to patients. Although the PNS has a good capacity for regeneration, regeneration over long distances poses several difficulties. Several recent studies have addressed Schwann cells’ limited proliferative capacity; however, a solution has yet to be found. Here, we examine the effects of extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) on Schwann cell isolation, culture, and proliferation rate. The study conducted demonstrated that Schwann cells treated with ESWT had significantly improved isolation, culture, and proliferative capacities. These findings represent a solution to a significant problem that hospitals and health-care providers face every year: how to treat long distance damage to the PNS with the limited proliferative capabilities of Schwann cells. Although these findings are promising, further studies must be conducted to address the molecular mechanisms by which ESWT alters Schwann cells and the potential implications for peripheral nerve damage and other prevalent illnesses. This study is a review article. Referred literature in this paper has been listed in the references part. The datasets supporting the conclusions of this article are available online by searching the PubMed. Some original points in this article come from the laboratory practice in our research centers and the authors’ experiences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Map Schuh
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Experimental and Clinical Traumatology, AUVA Research Center, A-1200 Vienna, Austria.,Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration, Donaueschingenstrasse 13, A-1200 Vienna, Austria
| | - Thomas Hausner
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Experimental and Clinical Traumatology, AUVA Research Center, A-1200 Vienna, Austria.,Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration, Donaueschingenstrasse 13, A-1200 Vienna, Austria
| | - Heinz R Redl
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Experimental and Clinical Traumatology, AUVA Research Center, A-1200 Vienna, Austria.,Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration, Donaueschingenstrasse 13, A-1200 Vienna, Austria
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30
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Advances and Future Applications of Augmented Peripheral Nerve Regeneration. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:ijms17091494. [PMID: 27618010 PMCID: PMC5037771 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17091494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2016] [Revised: 08/30/2016] [Accepted: 08/30/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Peripheral nerve injuries remain a significant source of long lasting morbidity, disability, and economic costs. Much research continues to be performed in areas related to improving the surgical outcomes of peripheral nerve repair. In this review, the physiology of peripheral nerve regeneration and the multitude of efforts to improve surgical outcomes are discussed. Improvements in tissue engineering that have allowed for the use of synthetic conduits seeded with neurotrophic factors are highlighted. Selected pre-clinical and available clinical data using cell based methods such as Schwann cell, undifferentiated, and differentiated stem cell transplantation to guide and enhance peripheral nerve regeneration are presented. The limitations that still exist in the utility of neurotrophic factors and cell-based therapies are outlined. Strategies that are most promising for translation into the clinical arena are suggested.
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31
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A rapid and versatile method for the isolation, purification and cryogenic storage of Schwann cells from adult rodent nerves. Sci Rep 2016; 6:31781. [PMID: 27549422 PMCID: PMC4994039 DOI: 10.1038/srep31781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2016] [Accepted: 07/27/2016] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
We herein developed a protocol for the rapid procurement of adult nerve-derived Schwann cells (SCs) that was optimized to implement an immediate enzymatic dissociation of fresh nerve tissue while maintaining high cell viability, improving yields and minimizing fibroblast and myelin contamination. This protocol introduces: (1) an efficient method for enzymatic cell release immediately after removal of the epineurium and extensive teasing of the nerve fibers; (2) an adaptable drop-plating method for selective cell attachment, removal of myelin debris, and expansion of the initial SC population in chemically defined medium; (3) a magnetic-activated cell sorting purification protocol for rapid and effective fibroblast elimination; and (4) an optional step of cryopreservation for the storage of the excess of cells. Highly proliferative SC cultures devoid of myelin and fibroblast growth were obtained within three days of nerve processing. Characterization of the initial, expanded, and cryopreserved cell products confirmed maintenance of SC identity, viability and growth rates throughout the process. Most importantly, SCs retained their sensitivity to mitogens and potential for differentiation even after cryopreservation. To conclude, this easy-to-implement and clinically relevant protocol allows for the preparation of expandable homogeneous SC cultures while minimizing time, manipulation of the cells, and exposure to culture variables.
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32
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Schuh CM, Hercher D, Stainer M, Hopf R, Teuschl AH, Schmidhammer R, Redl H. Extracorporeal shockwave treatment: A novel tool to improve Schwann cell isolation and culture. Cytotherapy 2016; 18:760-70. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcyt.2016.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2016] [Accepted: 03/05/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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33
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Guzen FP, de Araújo DP, Lucena EEDS, de Morais HHA, Cavalcanti JRLDP, do Nascimento ES, Costa MSMDO, Cavalcante JS. Effect of FGF-2 and sciatic nerve grafting on ChAT expression in dorsal root ganglia neurons of spinal cord transected rats. Neurosci Lett 2016; 616:43-8. [PMID: 26320023 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2015.08.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2015] [Revised: 08/17/2015] [Accepted: 08/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Neurotrophic factors and peripheral nerves are known to be good substrates for bridging CNS trauma. The involvement of fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2) activation in the dorsal root ganglion (DRG) was examined following spinal cord injury in the rat. We evaluated whether FGF-2 increases the ability of a sciatic nerve graft to enhance neuronal plasticity, in a gap promoted by complete transection of the spinal cord. The rats were subjected to a 4mm-long gap at low thoracic level and were repaired with saline (Saline or control group, n=10), or fragment of the sciatic nerve (Nerve group, n=10), or fragment of the sciatic nerve to which FGF-2 (Nerve+FGF-2 group, n=10) had been added immediately after lesion. The effects of the FGF-2 and fragment of the sciatic nerve grafts on neuronal plasticity were investigated using choline acetyl transferase (ChAT)-immunoreactivity of neurons in the dorsal root ganglion after 8 weeks. Preservation of the area and diameter of neuronal cell bodies in dorsal root ganglion (DRG) was seen in animals treated with the sciatic nerve, an effect enhanced by the addition of FGF-2. Thus, the addition of exogenous FGF-2 to a sciatic nerve fragment grafted in a gap of the rat spinal cord submitted to complete transection was able to improve neuroprotection in the DRG. The results emphasized that the manipulation of the microenvironment in the wound might amplify the regenerative capacity of peripheral neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fausto Pierdoná Guzen
- Laboratory of Experimental Neurology, Health Science Center, State University of Rio Grande do Norte, Mossoró, RN, Brazil.
| | - Dayane Pessoa de Araújo
- Laboratory of Experimental Neurology, Health Science Center, State University of Rio Grande do Norte, Mossoró, RN, Brazil
| | - Eudes Euler de Souza Lucena
- Laboratory of Experimental Neurology, Health Science Center, State University of Rio Grande do Norte, Mossoró, RN, Brazil
| | | | | | - Expedito Silva do Nascimento
- Laboratory of Neuroanatomy, Department of Morphology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, RN, Brazil
| | | | - Jeferson Sousa Cavalcante
- Laboratory of Neurochemical Studies, Department of Physiology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, RN, Brazil
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34
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Faroni A, Smith RJP, Lu L, Reid AJ. Human Schwann-like cells derived from adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells rapidly de-differentiate in the absence of stimulating medium. Eur J Neurosci 2016; 43:417-30. [PMID: 26309136 PMCID: PMC4744694 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.13055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2015] [Revised: 08/13/2015] [Accepted: 08/20/2015] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Finding a viable cell-based therapy to address peripheral nerve injury holds promise for enhancing the currently suboptimal microsurgical approaches to peripheral nerve repair. Autologous nerve grafting is the current gold standard for surgical repair of nerve gaps; however, this causes donor nerve morbidity in the patient, and the results remain unsatisfactory. Transplanting autologous Schwann cells (SCs) results in similar morbidity, as well as limited cell numbers and restricted potential for expansion in vitro. Adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs), 'differentiated' towards an SC-like phenotype in vitro (dASCs), have been presented as an alternative to SC therapies. The differentiation protocol stimulates ASCs to mimic the SC phenotype; however, the efficacy of dASCs in nerve repair is not yet convincing, and the practicality of the SC-like phenotype is unproven. Here, we examined the stability of dASCs by withdrawing differentiation medium for 72 h after the full 18-day differentiation protocol, and measuring changes in morphology, gene expression, and protein levels. Withdrawal of differentiation medium from dASCs resulted in a rapid reversion to stem cell-like characteristics. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay analyses demonstrated a significant reduction in gene and protein expression of growth factors that were expressed at high levels following 'differentiation'. Therefore, we question the relevance of differentiation to an SC-like phenotype, as withdrawal of differentiation medium, a model of transplantation into an injured nerve, results in rapid reversion of the dASC phenotype to stem cell-like characteristics. Further investigation into the differentiation process and the response of dASCs to an injured environment must be undertaken prior to the use of dASCs in peripheral nerve repair therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Faroni
- Blond McIndoe Laboratories, Stopford BuildingCentre for Tissue Injury and RepairInstitute of Inflammation and RepairUniversity of ManchesterOxford RoadManchesterM13 9PTUK
| | - Richard J. P. Smith
- Blond McIndoe Laboratories, Stopford BuildingCentre for Tissue Injury and RepairInstitute of Inflammation and RepairUniversity of ManchesterOxford RoadManchesterM13 9PTUK
| | - Li Lu
- Blond McIndoe Laboratories, Stopford BuildingCentre for Tissue Injury and RepairInstitute of Inflammation and RepairUniversity of ManchesterOxford RoadManchesterM13 9PTUK
- Department of PharmacologySchool of Basic MedicineLanzhou UniversityLanzhouChina
| | - Adam J. Reid
- Blond McIndoe Laboratories, Stopford BuildingCentre for Tissue Injury and RepairInstitute of Inflammation and RepairUniversity of ManchesterOxford RoadManchesterM13 9PTUK
- Department of Plastic Surgery & BurnsUniversity Hospital of South ManchesterManchesterUK
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35
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Levi AD, Burks SS, Anderson KD, Dididze M, Khan A, Dietrich WD. The Use of Autologous Schwann Cells to Supplement Sciatic Nerve Repair With a Large Gap: First in Human Experience. Cell Transplant 2015; 25:1395-403. [PMID: 26610173 DOI: 10.3727/096368915x690198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Insufficient donor nerve graft material in peripheral nerve surgery remains an obstacle for successful long-distance regeneration. Schwann cells (SCs) can be isolated from adult mammalian peripheral nerve biopsies and can be grown in culture and retain their capacity to enhance peripheral nerve regeneration within tubular repair strategies in multiple animal models. Human Schwann cells (hSCs) can be isolated, expanded in number, and retain their ability to promote regeneration and myelinate axons, but have never been tested in a clinical case of peripheral nerve injury. A sural nerve biopsy and peripheral nerve tissue from the traumatized sciatic nerve stumps was obtained after Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval as well as patient consent. The SCs were isolated after enzymatic digestion of the nerve and expanded with the use of heregulin β1 (0.1 µg/ml) and forskolin (15 mM). After two passages the Schwann cell isolates were combined with sural nerve grafts to repair a large sciatic nerve defect (7.5 cm) after a traumatic nerve injury. The sural nerve and the traumatized sciatic nerve ends both served as an excellent source of purified (90% and 97%, respectively) hSCs. Using ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) we were able to determine continuity of the nerve graft repair and the absence of tumor formation. The patient had evidence of proximal sensory recovery and definitive motor recovery distal to the repair in the distribution of the tibial and common peroneal nerve. The patient did experience an improvement in her pain scores over time. The goals of this approach were to determine the safety and clinical feasibility of implementing a new cellular repair strategy. In summary, this approach represents a novel strategy in the treatment of peripheral nerve injury and represents the first reported use of autologous cultured SCs after human peripheral nerve injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allan D Levi
- Department of Neurological Surgery and the Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
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36
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Kappos EA, Engels PE, Tremp M, Meyer zu Schwabedissen M, di Summa P, Fischmann A, von Felten S, Scherberich A, Schaefer DJ, Kalbermatten DF. Peripheral Nerve Repair: Multimodal Comparison of the Long-Term Regenerative Potential of Adipose Tissue-Derived Cells in a Biodegradable Conduit. Stem Cells Dev 2015; 24:2127-41. [PMID: 26134465 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2014.0424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Tissue engineering is a popular topic in peripheral nerve repair. Combining a nerve conduit with supporting adipose-derived cells could offer an opportunity to prevent time-consuming Schwann cell culture or the use of an autograft with its donor site morbidity and eventually improve clinical outcome. The aim of this study was to provide a broad overview over promising transplantable cells under equal experimental conditions over a long-term period. A 10-mm gap in the sciatic nerve of female Sprague-Dawley rats (7 groups of 7 animals, 8 weeks old) was bridged through a biodegradable fibrin conduit filled with rat adipose-derived stem cells (rASCs), differentiated rASCs (drASCs), human (h)ASCs from the superficial and deep abdominal layer, human stromal vascular fraction (SVF), or rat Schwann cells, respectively. As a control, we resutured a nerve segment as an autograft. Long-term evaluation was carried out after 12 weeks comprising walking track, morphometric, and MRI analyses. The sciatic functional index was calculated. Cross sections of the nerve, proximal, distal, and in between the two sutures, were analyzed for re-/myelination and axon count. Gastrocnemius muscle weights were compared. MRI proved biodegradation of the conduit. Differentiated rat ASCs performed significantly better than undifferentiated rASCs with less muscle atrophy and superior functional results. Superficial hASCs supported regeneration better than deep hASCs, in line with published in vitro data. The best regeneration potential was achieved by the drASC group when compared with other adipose tissue-derived cells. Considering the ease of procedure from harvesting to transplanting, we conclude that comparison of promising cells for nerve regeneration revealed that particularly differentiated ASCs could be a clinically translatable route toward new methods to enhance peripheral nerve repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth A Kappos
- 1 Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, Aesthetic and Hand Surgery, University Hospital of Basel , Basel, Switzerland .,2 Department of Neuropathology, Institute of Pathology, University Hospital of Basel , Basel, Switzerland
| | - Patricia E Engels
- 1 Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, Aesthetic and Hand Surgery, University Hospital of Basel , Basel, Switzerland .,2 Department of Neuropathology, Institute of Pathology, University Hospital of Basel , Basel, Switzerland
| | - Mathias Tremp
- 1 Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, Aesthetic and Hand Surgery, University Hospital of Basel , Basel, Switzerland .,2 Department of Neuropathology, Institute of Pathology, University Hospital of Basel , Basel, Switzerland
| | - Moritz Meyer zu Schwabedissen
- 1 Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, Aesthetic and Hand Surgery, University Hospital of Basel , Basel, Switzerland .,2 Department of Neuropathology, Institute of Pathology, University Hospital of Basel , Basel, Switzerland
| | - Pietro di Summa
- 3 Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, Aesthetic and Hand Surgery, University Hospital of Lausanne , Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Arne Fischmann
- 4 Division of Neuroradiology, Department of Radiology, University Hospital of Basel , Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Arnaud Scherberich
- 6 Institute for Surgical Research and Hospital Management, University Hospital of Basel , Basel, Switzerland
| | - Dirk J Schaefer
- 1 Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, Aesthetic and Hand Surgery, University Hospital of Basel , Basel, Switzerland
| | - Daniel F Kalbermatten
- 1 Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, Aesthetic and Hand Surgery, University Hospital of Basel , Basel, Switzerland .,2 Department of Neuropathology, Institute of Pathology, University Hospital of Basel , Basel, Switzerland
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Specific marker expression and cell state of Schwann cells during culture in vitro. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0123278. [PMID: 25859851 PMCID: PMC4393255 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0123278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2014] [Accepted: 02/18/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Schwann cells (SCs) in animals exist in different developmental stages or wound repair phases, distinguished mainly by the expression of SC-specific markers. No study has yet determined SC state under in vitro culture conditions, and the specific markers expressed in SC are obscure as well. In this study, we harvested sciatic nerves from newborn mice and isolated SCs by an enzyme-digestion method, then we examined the expression profiles of ten markers (S100, p75NTR, Sox10, Sox2, GAP43, NCAM, Krox20, Oct6, MBP, and MPZ) at both the RNA and protein levels in in vitro mouse SCs and speculated their relation with in vivo SC stages. We assayed RNA and protein levels of SC specific markers by immunofluorescence, Western Blot, and real-time quantitative RT-PCR. The results show that the expression of most markers (S100, p75NTR, GAP43, NCAM, Krox20, Oct6, MBP and MPZ) was not detectable in all of early stage cultured SCs. The expression of transcription factors Sox10 and Sox2 was, however, detectable in all SCs. After 8 days, the positive expression rate of all markers except GAP43 and Oct6 was almost 100%.These results indicates Sox10 is a necessary marker for SC identification, while S100 is not reliable. SCs cultured in vitro express Sox2, P75NTR, NCAM, GAP43, Oct6, and MPZ, suggesting that they are similar to in vivo undifferentiated iSCs or dedifferentiated iSCs after nerve injury.
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Xu XM. Breaking news in spinal cord injury research: FDA approved phase I clinical trial of human, autologous schwann cell transplantation in patients with spinal cord injuries. Neural Regen Res 2015; 7:1685-7. [PMID: 25624788 PMCID: PMC4302447 DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-5374.2012.22.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2012] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Ming Xu
- Spinal Cord and Brain Injury Research Group, Stark Neurosciences Research Institute & Department of Neurological Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
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Kanno H, Pearse DD, Ozawa H, Itoi E, Bunge MB. Schwann cell transplantation for spinal cord injury repair: its significant therapeutic potential and prospectus. Rev Neurosci 2015; 26:121-8. [DOI: 10.1515/revneuro-2014-0068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2014] [Accepted: 10/16/2014] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
AbstractTransplantation of Schwann cells (SCs) is a promising therapeutic strategy for spinal cord repair. The introduction of SCs into the injured spinal cord has been shown to reduce tissue loss, promote axonal regeneration, and facilitate myelination of axons for improved sensorimotor function. The pathology of spinal cord injury (SCI) comprises multiple processes characterized by extensive cell death, development of a milieu inhibitory to growth, and glial scar formation, which together limits axonal regeneration. Many studies have suggested that significant functional recovery following SCI will not be possible with a single therapeutic strategy. The use of additional approaches with SC transplantation may be needed for successful axonal regeneration and sufficient functional recovery after SCI. An example of such a combination strategy with SC transplantation has been the complementary administration of neuroprotective agents/growth factors, which improves the effect of SCs after SCI. Suspension of SCs in bioactive matrices can also enhance transplanted SC survival and increase their capacity for supporting axonal regeneration in the injured spinal cord. Inhibition of glial scar formation produces a more permissive interface between the SC transplant and host spinal cord for axonal growth. Co-transplantation of SCs and other types of cells such as olfactory ensheathing cells, bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cells, and neural stem cells can be a more effective therapy than transplantation of SCs alone following SCI. This article reviews some of the evidence supporting the combination of SC transplantation with additional strategies for SCI repair and presents a prospectus for achieving better outcomes for persons with SCI.
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Thoma EC, Merkl C, Heckel T, Haab R, Knoflach F, Nowaczyk C, Flint N, Jagasia R, Jensen Zoffmann S, Truong HH, Petitjean P, Jessberger S, Graf M, Iacone R. Chemical conversion of human fibroblasts into functional Schwann cells. Stem Cell Reports 2014; 3:539-47. [PMID: 25358782 PMCID: PMC4223700 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2014.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2013] [Revised: 07/30/2014] [Accepted: 07/30/2014] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Direct transdifferentiation of somatic cells is a promising approach to obtain patient-specific cells for numerous applications. However, conversion across germ-layer borders often requires ectopic gene expression with unpredictable side effects. Here, we present a gene-free approach that allows efficient conversion of human fibroblasts via a transient progenitor stage into Schwann cells, the major glial cell type of peripheral nerves. Using a multikinase inhibitor, we transdifferentiated fibroblasts into transient neural precursors that were subsequently further differentiated into Schwann cells. The resulting induced Schwann cells (iSCs) expressed numerous Schwann cell-specific proteins and displayed neurosupportive and myelination capacity in vitro. Thus, we established a strategy to obtain mature Schwann cells from human postnatal fibroblasts under chemically defined conditions without the introduction of ectopic genes. Direct conversion of human fibroblasts into Schwann cells No introduction of ectopic genes Induction of conversion by multikinase inhibitor
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva C Thoma
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, 4070 Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Claudia Merkl
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, 4070 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Tobias Heckel
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, 4070 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Rachel Haab
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, 4070 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Frederic Knoflach
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, 4070 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Corinne Nowaczyk
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, 4070 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Nicholas Flint
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, 4070 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Ravi Jagasia
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, 4070 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Sannah Jensen Zoffmann
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, 4070 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Hoa Hue Truong
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, 4070 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Pascal Petitjean
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, 4070 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Sebastian Jessberger
- Brain Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Science, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Martin Graf
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, 4070 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Roberto Iacone
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, 4070 Basel, Switzerland
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Dilwali S, Patel PB, Roberts DS, Basinsky GM, Harris GJ, Emerick KS, Stankovic KM. Primary culture of human Schwann and schwannoma cells: improved and simplified protocol. Hear Res 2014; 315:25-33. [PMID: 24910344 PMCID: PMC4164296 DOI: 10.1016/j.heares.2014.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2013] [Revised: 04/30/2014] [Accepted: 05/29/2014] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Primary culture of human Schwann cells (SCs) and vestibular schwannoma (VS) cells are invaluable tools to investigate SC physiology and VS pathobiology, and to devise effective pharmacotherapies against VS, which are sorely needed. However, existing culture protocols, in aiming to create robust, pure cultures, employ methods that can lead to loss of biological characteristics of the original cells, potentially resulting in misleading biological findings. We have developed a minimally manipulative method to culture primary human SC and VS cells, without the use of selective mitogens, toxins, or time-consuming and potentially transformative laboratory techniques. Schwann cell purity was quantified longitudinally using S100 staining in SC cultures derived from the great auricular nerve and VS cultures followed for 7 and 12 weeks, respectively. SC cultures retained approximately ≥85% purity for 2 weeks. VS cultures retained approximately ≥80% purity for the majority of the span of 12 weeks, with maximal purity of 87% at 2 weeks. The VS cultures showed high level of biological similarity (68% on average) to their respective parent tumors, as assessed using a protein array featuring 41 growth factors and receptors. Apoptosis rate in vitro negatively correlated with tumor volume. Our results, obtained using a faster, simplified culturing method than previously utilized, indicate that highly pure, primary human SC and VS cultures can be established with minimal manipulation, reaching maximal purity at 2 weeks of culture. The VS cultures recapitulate the parent tumors' biology to a great degree, making them relevant models to investigate VS pathobiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonam Dilwali
- Speech and Hearing Bioscience and Technology Program, Harvard - Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Division of Health Sciences and Technology, 77 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Eaton Peabody Laboratories and Department of Otolaryngology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, 243 Charles Street, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - Pratik B Patel
- Department of Otology and Laryngology, Harvard Medical School, 651 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Eaton Peabody Laboratories and Department of Otolaryngology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, 243 Charles Street, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - Daniel S Roberts
- Department of Otology and Laryngology, Harvard Medical School, 651 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Eaton Peabody Laboratories and Department of Otolaryngology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, 243 Charles Street, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - Gina M Basinsky
- Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Gordon J Harris
- Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kevin S Emerick
- Department of Otology and Laryngology, Harvard Medical School, 651 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Eaton Peabody Laboratories and Department of Otolaryngology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, 243 Charles Street, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - Konstantina M Stankovic
- Speech and Hearing Bioscience and Technology Program, Harvard - Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Division of Health Sciences and Technology, 77 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Department of Otology and Laryngology, Harvard Medical School, 651 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Eaton Peabody Laboratories and Department of Otolaryngology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, 243 Charles Street, Boston, MA, 02114, USA.
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Clinical translation of autologous Schwann cell transplantation for the treatment of spinal cord injury. Curr Opin Organ Transplant 2014; 18:682-9. [PMID: 24220051 PMCID: PMC3864173 DOI: 10.1097/mot.0000000000000026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To describe the current status of testing Schwann cell transplantation as a therapy for human spinal cord injury (SCI). RECENT FINDINGS Transplanted Schwann cells have reparative effects in the damaged spinal cord. A few clinical studies have reported that Schwann cell transplantation appears safe. Compared with allogeneic cell transplants, autologous cells do not require immune suppression, but the workload of cell manufacturing is greater. Preclinical Schwann cell transplant studies conducted at the University of Miami in 2009-2012 supported an investigational new drug approved by the Food and Drug Administration. A Phase 1 safety study has been initiated. SUMMARY Spinal cord repair after severe SCI requires that axonal regeneration and myelination occur in a context of reduced inhibition, enhanced plasticity, and new circuit formation. Evolving clinical experience with Schwann cell transplantation may provide a basis upon which additionally combined therapeutics can be tested to increase the extent of repair after SCI. Safety is the primary consideration when ex-vivo manipulated cells are introduced into the damaged nervous system. Preclinical studies across several species have not indicated safety concerns regarding Schwann cells. Initial clinical reports from studies in Iran and China are suggestive of clinical safety, although more rigorous characterization of the implanted cells is needed.
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Transforming growth factor-β1 may be a key mediator of the fibrogenic properties of neural cells in leprosy. J Neuropathol Exp Neurol 2013; 72:351-66. [PMID: 23481710 DOI: 10.1097/nen.0b013e31828bfc60] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibrosis is the main cause of irreversible nerve damage in leprosy. Phenotypic changes in Mycobacterium leprae (ML)-infected Schwann cells (SCs) have been suggested to mediate this process. We found that SC line cultures stimulated with ML upregulated transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), and that TGF-β1 or ML induced increased numbers of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA)-positive cells with characteristic stress fibers. Mycobacterium leprae and TGF-β1 also induced increased type I collagen and fibronectin mRNA and secretion and augmented mRNA levels of SOX9 and ZEB1, which are involved in the epithelial-mesenchymal transition. These effects could be inhibited by the TGF-β1 type I receptor (ALK5) inhibitor, SB-431542. In nerve biopsies from leprosy-infected patients with varying grades of fibrosis (n = 11), type I and III collagen and fibronectin were found in the endoneurium and perineurium, α-SMA-positive cells filled the fibrotic perineurium but not the endoneurium, and CD34-positive fibroblasts predominated in the endoneurium. Results of transcriptional studies of 3 leprosy nerves and 5 controls were consistent with these data, but α-SMA and other mRNA levels were not different from those in the control samples. Our findings suggest that TGF-β1 may orchestrate events, including reprogramming of the SC phenotype, leading to transdifferentiation, connective tissue cell expansion, and fibrogenesis in the evolution of leprosy nerve lesions during some evolutionary stages.
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Farrer RG, Farrer JR, DeVries GH. Platelet-derived growth factor-BB activates calcium/calmodulin-dependent and -independent mechanisms that mediate Akt phosphorylation in the neurofibromin-deficient human Schwann cell line ST88-14. J Biol Chem 2013; 288:11066-73. [PMID: 23457304 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m112.442244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurofibromatosis type 1-derived Schwann cells isolated from malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNSTs) overexpress PDGF receptor-β and generate an aberrant intracellular calcium increase in response to PDGF-BB. Using the human MPNST Schwann cell line ST88-14, we demonstrate that, in addition to a transient phosphorylation of Akt, PDGF-BB stimulation produces an atypical sustained phosphorylation of Akt that is dependent on calcium and calmodulin (CaM). The sustained Akt phosphorylation did not occur in PDGF-BB-stimulated normal human Schwann cells or ST88-14 cells stimulated with stem cell factor, whose receptor is also overexpressed in ST88-14 cells. The sustained Akt phosphorylation induced by PDGF-BB was inhibited by pretreatment of the cells with either the intracellular calcium chelator 1,2-bis(2-aminophenoxy)ethane-N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid tetrakis(acetoxymethyl) ester (BAPTA-AM) or the CaM antagonist W7, whereas the transient portion was not inhibited. Akt also co-immunoprecipitated with CaM in a PDGF-BB-dependent manner, suggesting that direct interaction between Akt and CaM is involved in the sustained phosphorylation of Akt. Furthermore, we provide evidence that anti-apoptotic effects of PDGF-BB on serum-deprived ST88-14 cells can be inhibited by W7, implicating the PDGF-BB-induced activation of calcium/CaM in promoting cell survival, presumably through sustained Akt activation. We conclude that the activation of the calcium/CaM/Akt pathway resulting from stimulation of overexpressed PDGF receptor-β may contribute to the survival and tumorigenicity of MPNST cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert G Farrer
- Research Service, Edward Hines, Jr. Veterans Administration Hospital, Hines, Illinois 60141, USA.
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FGF-2 Low Molecular Weight Selectively Promotes Neuritogenesis of Motor Neurons In Vitro. Mol Neurobiol 2012; 47:770-81. [DOI: 10.1007/s12035-012-8389-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2012] [Accepted: 12/14/2012] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
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Raheja A, Suri V, Suri A, Sarkar C, Srivastava A, Mohanty S, Jain KG, Sharma MC, Mallick HN, Yadav PK, Kalaivani M, Pandey RM. Dose-dependent facilitation of peripheral nerve regeneration by bone marrow-derived mononuclear cells: a randomized controlled study: laboratory investigation. J Neurosurg 2012; 117:1170-81. [PMID: 23039144 DOI: 10.3171/2012.8.jns111446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECT Bone marrow-derived stem cells enhance the rate of regeneration of neuronal cells leading to clinical improvement in nerve injury, spinal cord injury, and brain infarction. Recent experiments in the local application of bone marrow-derived mononuclear cells (BM-MNCs) in models of sciatic nerve transection in rats have suggested their beneficial role in nerve regeneration, although the effects of variable doses of stem cells on peripheral nerve regeneration have never been specifically evaluated in the literature. In this paper, the authors evaluated the dose-dependent role of BM-MNCs in peripheral nerve regeneration in a model of sciatic nerve transection in rats. METHODS The right sciatic nerve of 60 adult female Wistar rats (randomized into 2 test groups and 1 control group, 20 rats in each group) underwent transection under an operating microscope. The cut ends of the nerve were approximated using 2 epineural microsutures. The gap was filled with low-dose (5 million BM-MNCs/100 μl phosphate-buffered saline [PBS]) rat BM-MNCs in one group, high-dose (10 million BM-MNCs/100 μl PBS) rat BM-MNCs in another group, and only PBS in the control group, and the approximated nerve ends were sealed using fibrin glue. Histological assessment was performed after 30 days by using semiquantitative and morphometric analyses and was done to assess axonal regeneration, percentage of myelinated fibers, axonal diameter, fiber diameter, and myelin thickness at distal-most sites (10 mm from site of repair), intermediate distal sites (5 mm distal to the repair site), and site of repair. RESULTS The recovery of nerve cell architecture after nerve anastomosis was far better in the high-dose BM-MNC group than in the low-dose BM-MNC and control groups, and it was most evident (p < 0.02 in the majority of the parameters [3 of 4]) at the distal-most site. Overall, the improvement in myelin thickness was most significant with incremental dosage of BM-MNCs, and was evident at the repair, intermediate distal, and distal-most sites (p = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS This study emphasizes the role of BM-MNCs, which can be isolated easily from bone marrow aspirates, in peripheral nerve injury and highlights their dose-dependent facilitation of nerve regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amol Raheja
- Department of Neurosurgery and Gamma Knife, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
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LEE PHILIPR, COHEN JONATHANE, TENDI ELISABETTAA, FARRER ROBERT, DE VRIES GEORGEH, BECKER KEVING, FIELDS RDOUGLAS. Transcriptional profiling in an MPNST-derived cell line and normal human Schwann cells. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012; 1:135-47. [PMID: 16429615 PMCID: PMC1325299 DOI: 10.1017/s1740925x04000274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
cDNA microarrays were utilized to identify abnormally expressed genes in a malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor (MPNST)-derived cell line, T265, by comparing the mRNA abundance profiles with that of normal human Schwann cells (nhSCs). The findings characterize the molecular phenotype of this important cell-line model of MPNSTs, and elucidate the contribution of Schwann cells in MPNSTs. In total, 4608 cDNA sequences were screened and hybridizations replicated on custom cDNA microarrays. In order to verify the microarray data, a large selection of differentially expressed mRNA transcripts were subjected to semi-quantitative reverse transcription PCR (LightCycler). Western blotting was performed to investigate a selection of genes and signal transduction pathways, as a further validation of the microarray data. The data generated from multiple microarray screens, semi-quantitative RT-PCR and Western blotting are in broad agreement. This study represents a comprehensive gene-expression analysis of an MPNST-derived cell line and the first comprehensive global mRNA profile of nhSCs in culture. This study has identified ~900 genes that are expressed abnormally in the T265 cell line and detected many genes not previously reported to be expressed in nhSCs. The results provide crucial information on the T265 cells that is essential for investigation using this cell line in experimental studies in neurofibromatosis type I (NF1), and important information on normal human Schwann cells that is applicable to a wide range of studies on Schwann cells in cell culture.
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Affiliation(s)
- PHILIP R. LEE
- Section on Nervous System Development and Plasticity, NICHD, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - JONATHAN E. COHEN
- Section on Nervous System Development and Plasticity, NICHD, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - ELISABETTA A. TENDI
- Section on Nervous System Development and Plasticity, NICHD, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - ROBERT FARRER
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Anatomy, Loyola University of Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
| | - GEORGE H. DE VRIES
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Anatomy, Loyola University of Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
| | - KEVIN G. BECKER
- Gene Expression and Genomics Unit, NIA, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD
| | - R. DOUGLAS FIELDS
- Section on Nervous System Development and Plasticity, NICHD, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
- Correspondence should be addressed to: R. Douglas Fields, Section on Nervous System Development and Plasticity, Bldg. 35, Rm. 2A211, MSC 3713 NICHD, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA, phone: +1 301 480 3209, fax: +1 301 496 9630,
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Bunge MB, Wood PM. Realizing the maximum potential of Schwann cells to promote recovery from spinal cord injury. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2012; 109:523-540. [PMID: 23098734 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-444-52137-8.00032-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Transplantation of Schwann cells (SCs) has been extensively investigated as a therapeutic intervention in rodent models of spinal cord injury (SCI). Here we review both strengths and weaknesses of this approach and discuss additional strategies for maximizing the potential of SCs to repair the injured spinal cord. With no additional treatments, SCs were consistently shown to provide a bridge across the lesion site, supporting the ingrowth of sensory and propriospinal axons, to myelinate axons and to decrease the size of cavities formed after injury. Supraspinal axons did not, however, grow onto the bridge, axons failed to traverse the caudal SC-host cord interface and transplanted SC survival was poor. More recent studies have shown that the potential of SC transplantation as a therapeutic approach can be strongly enhanced by combining additional strategies . For example, combining SC transplantation with elevation of cAMP levels resulted in growth of brainstem axons into the SC graft and caudal to the lesion and in significant improvements in locomotion. Axon growth (and functional improvement) have been increased by strategies to raise neurotrophin levels, either by injection or by genetic modification of the SCs before transplantation. A major problem in maximizing SC potential in injured cord has been in achieving good integration of the transplanted cells with the adjacent cord parenchyma. Several previous studies suggested an ability of SCs to migrate extensively in CNS tissue when astroctyes were absent and to myelinate CNS axons. Furthermore, in some cases involving very limited injury, SCs migrated and integrated well even in the presence of host astrocytes. Consistent with these observations, treatments with an enzyme, chondroitinase, to modify the SC-astrocyte interface surrounding the graft, have shown much promise. Very new studies have shown that SCs derived from SC precursors show a higher ability to survive, integrate well with host tissue and support brainstem axon growth into and beyond the graft, confirming the innate promise of SCs in spinal cord repair. We review one clinical trial already underway in Iran testing SC transplantation in patients with SCI. Finally, we briefly describe a protocol, adaptable to the principles of good manufacturing practice, for generating large numbers of human SCs. Overall, the available evidence suggests that SCs, especially when used in combination with other treatments, offer one of the best hopes we have today of devising an effective treatment for spinal cord repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Bartlett Bunge
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.
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Haastert-Talini K. Culture and proliferation of highly purified adult Schwann cells from rat, dog, and man. Methods Mol Biol 2012; 846:189-200. [PMID: 22367812 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-61779-536-7_17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
This chapter presents fast and easy protocols to obtain highly purified cultures of proliferating adult rat, canine, and human Schwann cells. Cell preparation from predegenerated adult sciatic nerves combined with the use of melanocyte growth medium supplemented with forskolin, fibroblast growth factor-2, pituitary extract, and heregulin as selective, serum-free culture medium and two methods for a consecutive cell-enrichment step are described. Our protocols result in approximately 90% pure Schwann cell cultures (or higher). The average time to obtain highly purified in vitro cultures of adult Schwann cells is 21 days.
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