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Ganesan S, Dharmarajan A, Sudhir G, Perumalsamy LR. Unravelling the Road to Recovery: Mechanisms of Wnt Signalling in Spinal Cord Injury. Mol Neurobiol 2024; 61:7661-7679. [PMID: 38421469 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-024-04055-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a complex neurodegenerative pathology that consistently harbours a poor prognostic outcome. At present, there are few therapeutic strategies that can halt neuronal cell death and facilitate functional motor recovery. However, recent studies have highlighted the Wnt pathway as a key promoter of axon regeneration following central nervous system (CNS) injuries. Emerging evidence also suggests that the temporal dysregulation of Wnt may drive cell death post-SCI. A major challenge in SCI treatment resides in developing therapeutics that can effectively target inflammation and facilitate glial scar repair. Before Wnt signalling is exploited for SCI therapy, further research is needed to clarify the implications of Wnt on neuroinflammation during chronic stages of injury. In this review, an attempt is made to dissect the impact of canonical and non-canonical Wnt pathways in relation to individual aspects of glial and fibrotic scar formation. Furthermore, it is also highlighted how modulating Wnt activity at chronic time points may aid in limiting lesion expansion and promoting axonal repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suchita Ganesan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Sri Ramachandra Faculty of Biomedical Sciences and Technology, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, India
| | - Arun Dharmarajan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Sri Ramachandra Faculty of Biomedical Sciences and Technology, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, India
- Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin University, Bentley, Perth, WA, 6102, Australia
- Curtin Medical School, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
- School of Human Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA, Australia
- Sri Ramachandra Faculty of Clinical Research, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, India
| | - G Sudhir
- Department of Orthopedics and Spine Surgery, Sri Ramachandra Medical College and Research Institute, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, India.
| | - Lakshmi R Perumalsamy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Sri Ramachandra Faculty of Biomedical Sciences and Technology, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, India.
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Li K, Chen Z, Chang X, Xue R, Wang H, Guo W. Wnt signaling pathway in spinal cord injury: from mechanisms to potential applications. Front Mol Neurosci 2024; 17:1427054. [PMID: 39114641 PMCID: PMC11303303 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2024.1427054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) denotes damage to both the structure and function of the spinal cord, primarily manifesting as sensory and motor deficits caused by disruptions in neural transmission pathways, potentially culminating in irreversible paralysis. Its pathophysiological processes are complex, with numerous molecules and signaling pathways intricately involved. Notably, the pronounced upregulation of the Wnt signaling pathway post-SCI holds promise for neural regeneration and repair. Activation of the Wnt pathway plays a crucial role in neuronal differentiation, axonal regeneration, local neuroinflammatory responses, and cell apoptosis, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic target for treating SCI. However, excessive activation of the Wnt pathway can also lead to negative effects, highlighting the need for further investigation into its applicability and significance in SCI. This paper provides an overview of the latest research advancements in the Wnt signaling pathway in SCI, summarizing the recent progress in treatment strategies associated with the Wnt pathway and analyzing their advantages and disadvantages. Additionally, we offer insights into the clinical application of the Wnt signaling pathway in SCI, along with prospective avenues for future research direction.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Huaibo Wang
- Department of Spine Surgery, The Second Hospital Affiliated to Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
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Dou Y, Zhai H, Li H, Xing H, Zhu C, Xuan Z. Endothelial cells-derived exosomes-based hydrogel improved tendinous repair via anti-inflammatory and tissue regeneration-promoting properties. J Nanobiotechnology 2024; 22:401. [PMID: 38982446 PMCID: PMC11232200 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-024-02607-0] [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: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Tendon injuries are common orthopedic ailments with a challenging healing trajectory, especially in cases like the Achilles tendon afflictions. The healing trajectory of tendon injuries is often suboptimal, leading to scar formation and functional impairment due to the inherent low metabolic activity and vascularization of tendon tissue. As pressing is needed for effective interventions, efforts are made to explore biomaterials to augment tendon healing. However, tissue engineering approaches face hurdles in optimizing tissue scaffolds and nanomedical strategies. To navigate these challenges, an injectable hydrogel amalgamated with human umbilical vein endothelial cells-derived exosomes (HUVECs-Exos) was prepared and named H-Exos-gel in this study, aiming to enhance tendon repair. In our research involving a model of Achilles tendon injuries in 60 rats, we investigated the efficacy of H-Exos-gel through histological assessments performed at 2 and 4 weeks and behavioral assessments conducted at the 4-week mark revealed its ability to enhance the Achilles tendon's mechanical strength, regulate inflammation and facilitate tendon regeneration and functional recovery. Mechanically, the H-Exos-gel modulated the cellular behaviors of macrophages and tendon-derived stem cells (TDSCs) by inhibiting inflammation-related pathways and promoting proliferation-related pathways. Our findings delineate that the H-Exos-gel epitomizes a viable bioactive medium for tendon healing, heralding a promising avenue for the clinical amelioration of tendon injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yichen Dou
- Department of Hand and Podiatric Surgery, Orthopedics Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, 130031, Changchun, P.R. China
| | - Hong Zhai
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, 130031, Changchun, P.R. China
| | - Haiqiu Li
- Department of Hand and Podiatric Surgery, Orthopedics Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, 130031, Changchun, P.R. China
| | - Hanlin Xing
- Department of Hand and Podiatric Surgery, Orthopedics Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, 130031, Changchun, P.R. China
| | - Cheng Zhu
- Department of Hand and Podiatric Surgery, Orthopedics Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, 130031, Changchun, P.R. China
| | - Zhaopeng Xuan
- Department of Hand and Podiatric Surgery, Orthopedics Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, 130031, Changchun, P.R. China.
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Liu A, Yu L, Li X, Zhang K, Zhang W, So KF, Tissir F, Qu Y, Zhou L. Celsr2-mediated morphological polarization and functional phenotype of reactive astrocytes in neural repair. Glia 2023. [PMID: 37186402 DOI: 10.1002/glia.24378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2022] [Revised: 04/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Neural repair is highly influenced by reactive astrocytes. Atypical cadherin Celsr2 regulates neuron development and axon regeneration, while its role in glial cells remains unexplored. In this study, we show that Celsr2 is highly expressed in spinal astrocytes of adult mice, and knockout of Celsr2 results in reactive astrocytes with longer protrusions preferentially orientated towards lesion borders in culture scratch assay and injured spinal cord, and elevation of total and active Cdc42 and Rac1 protein in western blots. Inactivation of Celsr2 enhances calcium influx in reactive astrocytes in time-lapse imaging. Morphological phenotypes of cultured Celsr2-/- astrocytes are rescued by Cdc42 or Rac1 inhibitors. Following spinal cord injury (SCI), Celsr2-/- mice exhibit smaller lesion cavity and glial scar, enhanced fiber regeneration, weaker microglial response, and improved functional recovery than control animals. Similar phenotypes are found in mice with conditional knockout of Celsr2 in astrocytes. In Celsr2-/- mice, astrocyte phenotype is changed and neuroinflammation is alleviated after injury. Inhibiting Cdc42/Rac1 activities compromises astrocyte polarization and the improvement of neural repair and functional recovery in Celsr2-/- mice with SCI. In conclusion, Celsr2 regulates morphological polarization and functional phenotype of reactive astrocytes and inactivating Celsr2 is a potential therapeutic strategy for neural repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aimei Liu
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau CNS Regeneration Institute of Jinan University, Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Jinan University)-Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
- Neuroscience and Neurorehabilitation Institute, University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Qingdao, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Lingtai Yu
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau CNS Regeneration Institute of Jinan University, Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Jinan University)-Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuejun Li
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau CNS Regeneration Institute of Jinan University, Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Jinan University)-Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Kejiao Zhang
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau CNS Regeneration Institute of Jinan University, Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Jinan University)-Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau CNS Regeneration Institute of Jinan University, Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Jinan University)-Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Kwok-Fai So
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau CNS Regeneration Institute of Jinan University, Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Jinan University)-Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
- Neuroscience and Neurorehabilitation Institute, University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Qingdao, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Department of Neurology and Stroke Center, The First Affiliated Hospital & Clinical Neuroscience Institute of Jinan University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
- Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
- Center for Exercise and Brain Science, School of Psychology, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Fadel Tissir
- Institute of Neuroscience, Developmental Neurobiology, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
- College of Health and Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), Doha, Qatar
| | - Yibo Qu
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau CNS Regeneration Institute of Jinan University, Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Jinan University)-Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
- Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
- Center for Exercise and Brain Science, School of Psychology, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Libing Zhou
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau CNS Regeneration Institute of Jinan University, Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Jinan University)-Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
- Neuroscience and Neurorehabilitation Institute, University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Qingdao, Shandong, People's Republic of China
- Department of Neurology and Stroke Center, The First Affiliated Hospital & Clinical Neuroscience Institute of Jinan University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
- Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
- Center for Exercise and Brain Science, School of Psychology, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
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Huang L, Sun X, Wang L, Pei G, Wang Y, Zhang Q, Liang Z, Wang D, Fu C, He C, Wei Q. Enhanced effect of combining bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMMSCs) and pulsed electromagnetic fields (PEMF) to promote recovery after spinal cord injury in mice. MedComm (Beijing) 2022; 3:e160. [PMID: 35949547 PMCID: PMC9350428 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.160] [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: 03/28/2022] [Revised: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a destructive traumatic disease of the central nervous system without satisfying therapy efficiency. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMMSCs) therapy promotes the neurotrophic factors' secretion and axonal regeneration, thereby promoting recovery of SCI. Pulsed electromagnetic fields (PEMF) therapy has been proven to promote neural growth and regeneration. Both BMMSCs and PEMF have shown curative effects for SCI; PEMF can further promote stem cell differentiation. Thus, we explored the combined effects of BMMSCs and PEMF and the potential interaction between these two therapies in SCI. Compared with the SCI control, BMMSCs, and PEMF groups, the combinational therapy displayed the best therapeutic effect. Combinational therapy increased the expression levels of nutritional factors including brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), nerve growth factors (NGF) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), enhanced neuron preservation (NeuN and NF-200), and increased axonal growth (MBP and myelin sheath). Additionally, PEMF promoted the expression levels of BDNF and VEGF in BMMSCs via Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. In summary, the combined therapy of BMMSCs and PEMF displayed a more satisfactory effect than BMMSCs and PEMF therapy alone, indicating a promising application of combined therapy for the therapy of SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liyi Huang
- Rehabilitation Medicine Center and Institute of Rehabilitation Medicine, West China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduPR China
- Key Laboratory of Rehabilitation Medicine in Sichuan ProvinceSichuan UniversityChengduPR China
| | - Xin Sun
- Rehabilitation Medicine Center and Institute of Rehabilitation Medicine, West China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduPR China
- Key Laboratory of Rehabilitation Medicine in Sichuan ProvinceSichuan UniversityChengduPR China
| | - Lu Wang
- Rehabilitation Medicine Center and Institute of Rehabilitation Medicine, West China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduPR China
- Key Laboratory of Rehabilitation Medicine in Sichuan ProvinceSichuan UniversityChengduPR China
| | - Gaiqing Pei
- Rehabilitation Medicine Center and Institute of Rehabilitation Medicine, West China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduPR China
- Key Laboratory of Rehabilitation Medicine in Sichuan ProvinceSichuan UniversityChengduPR China
| | - Yang Wang
- Rehabilitation Medicine Center and Institute of Rehabilitation Medicine, West China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduPR China
- Key Laboratory of Rehabilitation Medicine in Sichuan ProvinceSichuan UniversityChengduPR China
| | - Qing Zhang
- Rehabilitation Medicine Center and Institute of Rehabilitation Medicine, West China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduPR China
- Key Laboratory of Rehabilitation Medicine in Sichuan ProvinceSichuan UniversityChengduPR China
| | - Zejun Liang
- Rehabilitation Medicine Center and Institute of Rehabilitation Medicine, West China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduPR China
- Key Laboratory of Rehabilitation Medicine in Sichuan ProvinceSichuan UniversityChengduPR China
| | - Dong Wang
- Rehabilitation Medicine Center and Institute of Rehabilitation Medicine, West China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduPR China
- Key Laboratory of Rehabilitation Medicine in Sichuan ProvinceSichuan UniversityChengduPR China
| | - Chenying Fu
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduSichuanPR China
- Aging and Geriatric Mechanism Laboratory, West China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduSichuanPR China
| | - Chengqi He
- Rehabilitation Medicine Center and Institute of Rehabilitation Medicine, West China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduPR China
- Key Laboratory of Rehabilitation Medicine in Sichuan ProvinceSichuan UniversityChengduPR China
| | - Quan Wei
- Rehabilitation Medicine Center and Institute of Rehabilitation Medicine, West China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduPR China
- Key Laboratory of Rehabilitation Medicine in Sichuan ProvinceSichuan UniversityChengduPR China
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Luo Z, Qi B, Sun Y, Chen Y, Lin J, Qin H, Wang N, Shi R, Shang X, Chen S, Chen J. Engineering Bioactive M2 Macrophage-Polarized, Anti-inflammatory, miRNA-Based Liposomes for Functional Muscle Repair: From Exosomal Mechanisms to Biomaterials. SMALL 2022; 18:e2201957. [PMID: 35802903 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202201957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2022] [Revised: 06/03/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Severe inflammation and myogenic differentiation disorder are the major obstacles to skeletal muscle healing after injury. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play an important role as regulatory molecules during the process of muscle healing, but the detailed mechanism of miRNA-mediated intercellular communication between myoblasts and macrophages remains unclear. Here, it is reported that myoblasts secrete miRNAs-enriched exosomes in the inflammatory environment, through which miR-224 is transferred into macrophages to inhibit M2 polarization. Further data demonstrate that WNT-9a may be a direct target of miR-224 for macrophage polarization. In turn, the secretome of M1 macrophages impairs myogenic differentiation and promotes proliferation. Single-cell integration analysis suggests that the elevation of exosome-derived miR-224 is caused by the activation of the key factor E2F1 in myoblasts and demonstrates the RB/E2F1/miR-224/WNT-9a axis. In vivo results show that treatment with antagomir-224 or liposomes containing miR-224 inhibitors suppresses fibrosis and improves muscle recovery. These findings indicate the importance of the crosstalk between myoblasts and macrophages via miRNA-containing exosomes in the regulation of macrophage polarization and myogenic differentiation/proliferation during muscle healing. This study provides a strategy for treating muscle injury through designing an M2 polarization-enabling anti-inflammatory and miRNA-based bioactive material.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiwen Luo
- Department of Sports Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, P. R. China
| | - Beijie Qi
- Department of Sports Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, P. R. China
| | - Yaying Sun
- Department of Sports Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, P. R. China
| | - Yisheng Chen
- Department of Sports Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, P. R. China
| | - Jinrong Lin
- Department of Sports Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, P. R. China
| | - Haocheng Qin
- Department of Rehabilitation, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, P. R. China
| | - Ning Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai 9th People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, P. R. China
| | - Runjie Shi
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Shanghai ninth people's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, P. R. China
| | - Xiliang Shang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai 9th People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, P. R. China
| | - Shiyi Chen
- Department of Sports Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, P. R. China
| | - Jiwu Chen
- Department of Sports Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200080, P. R. China
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Characterization of Ex Vivo and In Vitro Wnt Transcriptome Induced by Spinal Cord Injury in Rat Microglial Cells. Brain Sci 2022; 12:brainsci12060708. [PMID: 35741593 PMCID: PMC9221341 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12060708] [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: 03/07/2022] [Revised: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
It is well known that inflammation is crucial in the onset and progression of neurodegenerative diseases and traumatic central nervous system (CNS) injuries, and that microglia and monocyte-derived macrophages (MDMs) play a pivotal role in neuroinflammation. Therefore, the exploration of molecular signaling pathways that are involved in the microglia/macrophage response might help us to shed light on their eventual therapeutic modulation. Interestingly, there is growing evidence showing that the Wnt family of proteins is involved in different neuropathologies that are characterized by a dysregulated neuroinflammatory response, including spinal cord injury (SCI). Here, we aimed to validate a methodology with competence to assess the physiologically relevant Wnt expression patterns of active microglia and MDMs in a rat model of SCI. For that purpose, we have selected and adapted an in vitro system of primary microglia culture that were stimulated with a lesioned spinal cord extract (SCE), together with an ex vivo protocol of flow cytometry sorting of rat microglia/MDMs at different time-points after contusive SCI. Our study demonstrates that the expression profile of Wnt-related genes in microglia/MDM cells exhibit important differences between these particular scenarios which would be in line with previous studies where similar discrepancies have been described for other molecules. Moreover, our results provide for a first experimental report of the Wnt transcriptome in rat microglia and MDMs after SCI which, together with the research platform that was used in the study, and considering its limitations, we expect might contribute to foster the research on Wnt-driven immunomodulatory therapies.
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Cheng P, Liao HY, Zhang HH. The role of Wnt/mTOR signaling in spinal cord injury. J Clin Orthop Trauma 2022; 25:101760. [PMID: 35070684 PMCID: PMC8762069 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcot.2022.101760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Revised: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 01/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is the most common disabling spinal injury, a complex pathologic process that can eventually lead to severe neurological dysfunction. The Wnt/mTOR signaling pathway is a pervasive signaling cascade that regulates a wide range of physiological processes during embryonic development, from stem cell pluripotency to cell fate. Numerous studies have reported that Wnt/mTOR signaling pathway plays an important role in neural development, synaptogenesis, neuron growth, differentiation and survival after the central nervous system (CNS) is damaged. Wnt/mTOR also plays an important role in regulating various pathophysiological processes after spinal cord injury (SCI). After SCI, Wnt/mTOR signal regulates the physiological and pathological processes of neural stem cell proliferation and differentiation, neuronal axon regeneration, neuroinflammation and pain through multiple pathways. Due to the characteristics of the Wnt signal in SCI make it a potential therapeutic target of SCI. In this paper, the characteristics of Wnt/mTOR signal, the role of Wnt/mTOR pathway on SCI and related mechanisms are reviewed, and some unsolved problems are discussed. It is hoped to provide reference value for the research field of the role of Wnt/mTOR pathway in SCI, and provide a theoretical basis for biological therapy of SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Cheng
- Department of Spine Surgery, LanZhou University Second Hospital, 82 Cuiying Men, Lanzhou, 730000, PR China
| | - Hai-Yang Liao
- Department of Spine Surgery, Ganzhou People's Hospital, 16 Meiguan Avenue, Ganzhou, 342800, PR China
| | - Hai-Hong Zhang
- Department of Spine Surgery, LanZhou University Second Hospital, 82 Cuiying Men, Lanzhou, 730000, PR China
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Yang J, Wang Y, Yang D, Ma J, Wu S, Cai Q, Xue J, Yuan C, Wang J, Liu X. Wnt/β-catenin signaling regulates lipopolysaccharide-altered polarizations of RAW264.7 cells and alveolar macrophages in mouse lungs. EUR J INFLAMM 2021. [DOI: 10.1177/20587392211059362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Macrophages are capable of exerting both proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory functions in response to distinct environmental stimuli, by polarizing into classically inflammatory state (M1) and anti-inflammatory phenotype (M2), respectively. The Wnt/β-catenin signaling plays an important role in the tissue homeostasis and immune regulations, including the macrophage polarizations. However, the molecular mechanism of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in regulating alveolar macrophage polarization in an inflammatory state remains unclear. Methods The Wnt/β-catenin signaling-altered phenotypes of murine macrophage-like RAW264.7 cells in vitro and alveolar macrophage in vivo in both of naïve and lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation states were accessed by immunoblotting and immunostaining assays. Results The activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling inhibited macrophage M1 polarization, but promoted alternative M2 polarization in murine RAW264.7 cells under a naïve state. Interestingly, in an LPS-induced inflammation condition, the enhanced Wnt/β-catenin activity suppressed both M1 and M2 polarizations in RAW264.7 cells in vitro, and primary alveolar macrophages of LPS-challenged mice in vivo. Molecular analysis further demonstrated an involvement of Stat signing in regulating Wnt/β-catenin signaling-altered polarizations in mouse alveolar macrophages. Conclusion These results suggest a mechanism by which Wnt/β-catenin signaling modulates macrophage polarization in an inflammation state by regulating the Stat signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiali Yang
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Conservation and Utilization of Special Biological Resources in the Western, College of Life Science, Ningxia University, Yinchuan, , China
- College of Life Science, Ningxia University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Ying Wang
- Department of Biomedical Science, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Dandan Yang
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Conservation and Utilization of Special Biological Resources in the Western, College of Life Science, Ningxia University, Yinchuan, , China
- College of Life Science, Ningxia University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Jia Ma
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Conservation and Utilization of Special Biological Resources in the Western, College of Life Science, Ningxia University, Yinchuan, , China
- College of Life Science, Ningxia University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Shuang Wu
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Conservation and Utilization of Special Biological Resources in the Western, College of Life Science, Ningxia University, Yinchuan, , China
- College of Life Science, Ningxia University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Qian Cai
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Conservation and Utilization of Special Biological Resources in the Western, College of Life Science, Ningxia University, Yinchuan, , China
- College of Life Science, Ningxia University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Jing Xue
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Conservation and Utilization of Special Biological Resources in the Western, College of Life Science, Ningxia University, Yinchuan, , China
- College of Life Science, Ningxia University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Chao Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Conservation and Utilization of Special Biological Resources in the Western, College of Life Science, Ningxia University, Yinchuan, , China
- College of Life Science, Ningxia University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Center of Clinical and Diagnostic Laboratory, People’s Hospital of Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, Yinchuan, China
| | - Xiaoming Liu
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Conservation and Utilization of Special Biological Resources in the Western, College of Life Science, Ningxia University, Yinchuan, , China
- College of Life Science, Ningxia University, Yinchuan, China
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
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Wnt signaling: A prospective therapeutic target for chronic pain. Pharmacol Ther 2021; 231:107984. [PMID: 34480969 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2021.107984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Revised: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Despite the rapid advance over the past decades to design effective therapeutic pharmacological interventions, chronic pain remains to be an unresolved healthcare concern. Long term use of opioids, the first line analgesics, often causes detrimental side effects. Therefore, a profound understanding of the mechanisms underlying the development and maintenance of chronic pain states is urgently needed for the management of chronic pain. Substantial evidence indicates aberrant activation of Wnt signaling pathways in sciatic nerve, dorsal root ganglia and spinal cord dorsal horn in rodent models of chronic pain. Moreover, growing evidence shows that pharmacological blockage of aberrant activation of Wnt signaling pathways attenuates pain behaviors in animal models of chronic pain. Importantly, both intrathecal injection of Wnt agonists and Wnt ligands to naïve rats lead to the development of mechanical allodynia, which was inhibited by Wnt inhibitors. In this review, we summarized and discussed the therapeutic potential of pharmacological inhibitors of Wnt signaling in chronic pain in preclinical studies. These evidence showed that aberrant activation of Wnt signaling pathways contributed to chronic pain via enhancing neuroinflammation, regulating synaptic plasticity and reducing intraepidermal nerve fiber density. However, these findings raise further questions. Overall, despite the future challenges, these pioneering studies suggest that Wnt signaling is a promising therapeutic target for chronic pain.
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Shin T, Ahn M, Kim J, Jung K, Moon C, Kim MD. Visual Dysfunction in Multiple Sclerosis and its Animal Model, Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis: a Review. Mol Neurobiol 2021; 58:3484-3493. [PMID: 33745114 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-021-02355-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Visual disabilities in central nervous system autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS) and its animal model, experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), are important symptoms. Past studies have focused on neuro-inflammatory changes and demyelination in the white matter of the brain and spinal cord. In MS, neuro-inflammatory lesions have been diagnosed in the visual pathway; the lesions may perturb visual function. Similarly, neuropathological changes in the retina and optic nerves have been found in animals with chronic EAE. Although the retina and optic nerves are immunologically privileged sites via the blood-retina barrier and blood-brain barrier, respectively, inflammation can occur via other routes, such as the uvea (e.g., iris and choroid) and cerebrospinal fluid in the meninges. This review primarily addresses the direct involvement of the blood-retina barrier and the blood-brain barrier in the development of retinitis and optic neuritis in EAE models. Additional routes, including pro-inflammatory mediator-filled choroidal and subarachnoid spaces, are also discussed with respect to their roles in EAE-induced visual disability and as analogues of MS in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taekyun Shin
- College of Veterinary Medicine and Veterinary Medical Research Institute, Jeju National University, Jeju, 63243, Republic of Korea.
| | - Meejung Ahn
- Department of Animal Science, College of Life Science, Sangji University, Wonju, 26339, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeongtae Kim
- Department of Anatomy, Kosin University College of Medicine, Busan, 43267, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyungsook Jung
- Functional Biomaterials Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, 181 Ipsin-gil, Jeongeup-si, Jeonbuk, 56212, Republic of Korea
| | - Changjong Moon
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, College of Veterinary Medicine and BK21 Plus Project Team, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, Republic of Korea
| | - Moon-Doo Kim
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Jeju National University, Jeju, 63241, Republic of Korea
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12
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An Q, Sun C, Li R, Chen S, Gu X, An S, Wang Z. Calcitonin gene-related peptide regulates spinal microglial activation through the histone H3 lysine 27 trimethylation via enhancer of zeste homolog-2 in rats with neuropathic pain. J Neuroinflammation 2021; 18:117. [PMID: 34020664 PMCID: PMC8139106 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-021-02168-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) as a mediator of microglial activation at the transcriptional level may facilitate nociceptive signaling. Trimethylation of H3 lysine 27 (H3K27me3) by enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) is an epigenetic mark that regulates inflammatory-related gene expression after peripheral nerve injury. In this study, we explored the relationship between CGRP and H3K27me3 in microglial activation after nerve injury, and elucidated the underlying mechanisms in the pathogenesis of chronic neuropathic pain. METHODS Microglial cells (BV2) were treated with CGRP and differentially enrichments of H3K27me3 on gene promoters were examined using ChIP-seq. A chronic constriction injury (CCI) rat model was used to evaluate the role of CGRP on microglial activation and EZH2/H3K27me3 signaling in CCI-induced neuropathic pain. RESULTS Overexpressions of EZH2 and H3K27me3 were confirmed in spinal microglia of CCI rats by immunofluorescence. CGRP treatment induced the increased of H3K27me3 expression in the spinal dorsal horn and cultured microglial cells (BV2) through EZH2. ChIP-seq data indicated that CGRP significantly altered H3K27me3 enrichments on gene promoters in microglia following CGRP treatment, including 173 gaining H3K27me3 and 75 losing this mark, which mostly enriched in regulation of cell growth, phagosome, and inflammation. qRT-PCR verified expressions of representative candidate genes (TRAF3IP2, BCL2L11, ITGAM, DAB2, NLRP12, WNT3, ADAM10) and real-time cell analysis (RTCA) verified microglial proliferation. Additionally, CGRP treatment and CCI increased expressions of ITGAM, ADAM10, MCP-1, and CX3CR1, key mediators of microglial activation in spinal dorsal horn and cultured microglial cells. Such increased effects induced by CCI were suppressed by CGRP antagonist and EZH2 inhibitor, which were concurrently associated with the attenuated mechanical and thermal hyperalgesia in CCI rats. CONCLUSION Our findings highly indicate that CGRP is implicated in the genesis of neuropathic pain through regulating microglial activation via EZH2-mediated H3K27me3 in the spinal dorsal horn.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi An
- Department of Human Anatomy, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Taian, China
| | - Chenyan Sun
- Department of Human Anatomy, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Taian, China
| | - Ruidi Li
- Department of Human Anatomy, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Taian, China
| | - Shuhui Chen
- Department of Human Anatomy, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Taian, China
| | - Xinpei Gu
- Department of Human Anatomy, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Taian, China
| | - Shuhong An
- Department of Human Anatomy, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Taian, China.
| | - Zhaojin Wang
- Department of Human Anatomy, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Taian, China.
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13
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Li M, Rong ZJ, Cao Y, Jiang LY, Zhong D, Li CJ, Sheng XL, Hu JZ, Lu HB. Utx Regulates the NF-κB Signaling Pathway of Natural Stem Cells to Modulate Macrophage Migration during Spinal Cord Injury. J Neurotrauma 2020; 38:353-364. [PMID: 32977735 DOI: 10.1089/neu.2020.7075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Neural stem cells (NSCs) play vital roles in the homeostasis of neurological function. Ubiquitously transcribed tetratricopeptide repeat, X chromosome (UTX) is an important regulator of stem cell phenotypes. In our current study, we aimed to investigate whether the conditional knockout of UTX on neural stem cells alters macrophage assembly in response to spinal cord injury (SCI). Conditional knockout Utx of NSC (Utx-KO) mice was used to generate SCI models by the modified Allen method. We reported that neurological function and scar hyperplasia significantly improved in Utx-KO mice after SCI, accompanied by significantly reduced assembly of macrophages. With a 45-fold pathway array and Western blot, we found that Utx-KO could significantly inhibit NF-κB signaling activation and promote the synthesis and secretion of macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) in NSCs. Administration of the selective NF-κB p65 activator betulinic acid and the selective MIF inhibitor ISO-1 confirmed that the activation of NF-κB p65 phosphorylation or inhibition of MIF could eliminate the benefits of Utx-KO in SCI, such as inhibition of macrophage aggregation and reduction in scar proliferation. This study confirmed that UTX in NSCs could alter macrophage migration and improve neurological function recovery after SCI in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miao Li
- Department of Spine Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, People's Republic of China.,Xiangya Hospital, Key Laboratory of Organ Injury, Aging and Regenerative Medicine of Hunan Province, Changsha, People's Republic of China
| | - Zi-Jie Rong
- Department of Spine Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, People's Republic of China.,Xiangya Hospital, Key Laboratory of Organ Injury, Aging and Regenerative Medicine of Hunan Province, Changsha, People's Republic of China
| | - Yong Cao
- Department of Spine Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, People's Republic of China.,Xiangya Hospital, Key Laboratory of Organ Injury, Aging and Regenerative Medicine of Hunan Province, Changsha, People's Republic of China
| | - Li-Yuan Jiang
- Department of Spine Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, People's Republic of China.,Xiangya Hospital, Key Laboratory of Organ Injury, Aging and Regenerative Medicine of Hunan Province, Changsha, People's Republic of China
| | - Dong Zhong
- Department of Spine Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, People's Republic of China.,Xiangya Hospital, Key Laboratory of Organ Injury, Aging and Regenerative Medicine of Hunan Province, Changsha, People's Republic of China
| | - Cheng-Jun Li
- Department of Spine Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, People's Republic of China.,Xiangya Hospital, Key Laboratory of Organ Injury, Aging and Regenerative Medicine of Hunan Province, Changsha, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao-Long Sheng
- Department of Spine Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, People's Republic of China.,Xiangya Hospital, Key Laboratory of Organ Injury, Aging and Regenerative Medicine of Hunan Province, Changsha, People's Republic of China
| | - Jian-Zhong Hu
- Department of Spine Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, People's Republic of China.,Xiangya Hospital, Key Laboratory of Organ Injury, Aging and Regenerative Medicine of Hunan Province, Changsha, People's Republic of China
| | - Hong-Bin Lu
- Xiangya Hospital, Key Laboratory of Organ Injury, Aging and Regenerative Medicine of Hunan Province, Changsha, People's Republic of China.,Department of Sports Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, People's Republic of China
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14
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Li X, Li M, Tian L, Chen J, Liu R, Ning B. Reactive Astrogliosis: Implications in Spinal Cord Injury Progression and Therapy. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2020; 2020:9494352. [PMID: 32884625 PMCID: PMC7455824 DOI: 10.1155/2020/9494352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Revised: 05/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Astrocytes are the most populous glial cells in the central nervous system (CNS). They are essential to CNS physiology and play important roles in the maintenance of homeostasis, development of synaptic plasticity, and neuroprotection. Nevertheless, under the influence of certain factors, astrocytes may also exert detrimental effects through a process of reactive astrogliosis. Previous studies have shown that astrocytes have more than one type of polarization. Two types have been extensively researched. One is a damaging change that occurs under inflammation and has been termed A1 astrocyte, while the other is a restorative change that occurs under ischemic induction and was termed A2 astrocyte. Researchers are now increasingly paying attention to the role of astrocytes in spinal cord injury (SCI), degenerative diseases, chronic pain, neurological tumors, and other CNS disorders. In this review, we discuss (a) the characteristics of polarized astrocytes, (b) the relationship between astrocyte polarization and SCI, and (c) new implications of reactive astrogliosis for future SCI therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyu Li
- Jinan Central Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No. 105, Jiefang Road, Jinan, Shandong 250013, China
| | - Meng Li
- Jinan Central Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No. 105, Jiefang Road, Jinan, Shandong 250013, China
| | - Lige Tian
- Jinan Central Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No. 105, Jiefang Road, Jinan, Shandong 250013, China
| | - Jianan Chen
- Jinan Central Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No. 105, Jiefang Road, Jinan, Shandong 250013, China
| | - Ronghan Liu
- Jinan Central Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No. 105, Jiefang Road, Jinan, Shandong 250013, China
| | - Bin Ning
- Jinan Central Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, No. 105, Jiefang Road, Jinan, Shandong 250013, China
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15
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Yang T, Dai Y, Chen G, Cui S. Dissecting the Dual Role of the Glial Scar and Scar-Forming Astrocytes in Spinal Cord Injury. Front Cell Neurosci 2020; 14:78. [PMID: 32317938 PMCID: PMC7147295 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2020.00078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2019] [Accepted: 03/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Recovery from spinal cord injury (SCI) remains an unsolved problem. As a major component of the SCI lesion, the glial scar is primarily composed of scar-forming astrocytes and plays a crucial role in spinal cord regeneration. In recent years, it has become increasingly accepted that the glial scar plays a dual role in SCI recovery. However, the underlying mechanisms of this dual role are complex and need further clarification. This dual role also makes it difficult to manipulate the glial scar for therapeutic purposes. Here, we briefly discuss glial scar formation and some representative components associated with scar-forming astrocytes. Then, we analyze the dual role of the glial scar in a dynamic perspective with special attention to scar-forming astrocytes to explore the underlying mechanisms of this dual role. Finally, taking the dual role of the glial scar into account, we provide several pieces of advice on novel therapeutic strategies targeting the glial scar and scar-forming astrocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuo Yang
- Department of Hand Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China.,Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - YuJuan Dai
- Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Gang Chen
- Department of Tissue and Embryology, Medical School of Nantong University, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, China.,Department of Anesthesiology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - ShuSen Cui
- Department of Hand Surgery, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
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