Schwann cell myelination requires integration of laminin activities

Structure, ligands, and roles of GPR126/ADGRG6 in the development and diseases

Adhesion G protein-coupled receptors (aGPCRs) are the second largest diverse group within the GPCR superfamily, which play critical roles in many physiological and pathological processes through cell-cell and cell-extracellular matrix interactions. The adhesion GPCR Adgrg6, also known as GPR126, is one of the better-characterized aGPCRs. GPR126 was previously found to have critical developmental roles in Schwann cell maturation and its mediated myelination in the peripheral nervous system in both zebrafish and mammals. Current studies have extended our understanding of GPR126-mediated roles during development and in human diseases. In this review, we highlighted these recent advances in GPR126 in expression profile, molecular structure, ligand-receptor interactions, and associated physiological and pathological functions in development and diseases.

A novel missense variant in LAMC1 identified in a POI family by whole exome sequencing

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to identify novel pathogenic genes and variants in a Chinese family with premature ovarian insufficiency (POI).

METHODS

A Chinese POI family was enrolled in this study. Whole exome sequencing was performed on the proband and her mother to identify the potential causative genes and variants and Sanger sequencing was used to confirm the finally identified potential pathogenic variant in the family.

RESULTS

An assessment of the family pedigree suggested that POI was inherited in an autosomal dominant manner in this family. A novel missense variant of the laminin subunit gamma-1 gene (LAMC1; NM_002293.4: c.3281A > T, p.D1094V) was finally identified in the proband and her affected mother. This variant was not found in any public databases. In silico analysis indicated the amino acid encoded at the variant site was highly conserved among mammals and associated with decreased protein stability and disrupted protein function. Its presence in the POI family was confirmed by Sanger sequencing.

CONCLUSIONS

This study firstly reported a novel missense variant of LAMC1 in a Chinese POI family, which was inherited in an autosomal dominant manner. This variant may result in the development of POI. Our results provide supporting evidence for a causative role for LAMC1 variants in POI.

Exogenous laminin exhibits a unique vascular pattern in the brain via binding to dystroglycan and integrins

BACKGROUND

Unlike other proteins that exhibit a diffusion pattern after intracerebral injection, laminin displays a vascular pattern. It remains unclear if this unique vascular pattern is caused by laminin-receptor interaction or laminin self-assembly.

METHODS

We compared the distribution of various wild-type laminin isoforms in the brain after intracerebral injection. To determine what causes the unique vascular pattern of laminin in the brain, laminin mutants with impaired receptor-binding and/or self-assembly activities and function-blocking antibodies to laminin receptors were used. In addition, the dynamics of laminin distribution and elimination were examined at multiple time points after intracerebral injection.

RESULTS

We found that β2-containing laminins had higher affinity for the vessels compared to β1-containing laminins. In addition, laminin mutants lacking receptor-binding domains but not that lacking self-assembly capability showed substantially reduced vascular pattern. Consistent with this finding, dystroglycan (DAG1) function-blocking antibody significantly reduced the vascular pattern of wild-type laminin-111. Although failed to affect the vascular pattern when used alone, integrin-β1 function-blocking antibody further decreased the vascular pattern when combined with DAG1 antibody. EDTA, which impaired laminini-DAG1 interaction by chelating Ca²⁺, also attenuated the vascular pattern. Immunohistochemistry revealed that laminins were predominantly located in the perivascular space in capillaries and venules/veins but not arterioles/arteries. The time-course study showed that laminin mutants with impaired receptor-engaging activity were more efficiently eliminated from the brain compared to their wild-type counterparts. Concordantly, significantly higher levels of mutant laminins were detected in the cerebral-spinal fluid (CSF).

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that intracerebrally injected laminins are enriched in the perivascular space in a receptor (DAG1/integrin)-dependent rather than self-assembly-dependent manner and eliminated from the brain mainly via the perivascular clearance system.

Development and In Vitro Differentiation of Schwann Cells

Schwann cells are glial cells of the peripheral nervous system. They exist in several subtypes and perform a variety of functions in nerves. Their derivation and culture in vitro are interesting for applications ranging from disease modeling to tissue engineering. Since primary human Schwann cells are challenging to obtain in large quantities, in vitro differentiation from other cell types presents an alternative. Here, we first review the current knowledge on the developmental signaling mechanisms that determine neural crest and Schwann cell differentiation in vivo. Next, an overview of studies on the in vitro differentiation of Schwann cells from multipotent stem cell sources is provided. The molecules frequently used in those protocols and their involvement in the relevant signaling pathways are put into context and discussed. Focusing on hiPSC- and hESC-based studies, different protocols are described and compared, regarding cell sources, differentiation methods, characterization of cells, and protocol efficiency. A brief insight into developments regarding the culture and differentiation of Schwann cells in 3D is given. In summary, this contribution provides an overview of the current resources and methods for the differentiation of Schwann cells, it supports the comparison and refinement of protocols and aids the choice of suitable methods for specific applications.

Clinical and pathological findings in neurolymphomatosis: Preliminary association with gene expression profiles in sural nerves

Although inflammation appears to play a role in neurolymphomatosis (NL), the mechanisms leading to degeneration in the peripheral nervous system are poorly understood. The purpose of this exploratory study was to identify molecular pathways underlying NL pathogenesis, combining clinical and neuropathological investigation with gene expression (GE) studies. We characterized the clinical and pathological features of eight patients with NL. We further analysed GE changes in sural nerve biopsies obtained from a subgroup of NL patients (n=3) and thirteen patients with inflammatory neuropathies as neuropathic controls. Based on the neuropathic symptoms and signs, NL patients were classified into three forms of neuropathy: chronic symmetrical sensorimotor polyneuropathy (SMPN, n=3), multiple mononeuropathy (MN, n=4) and acute motor-sensory axonal neuropathy (AMSAN, n=1). Predominantly diffuse malignant cells infiltration of epineurium was present in chronic SMPN, whereas endoneurial perivascular cells invasion was observed in MN. In contrast, diffuse endoneurium malignant cells localization occurred in AMSAN. We identified alterations in the expression of 1266 genes, with 115 up-regulated and 1151 down-regulated genes, which were mainly associated with ribosomal proteins (RP) and olfactory receptors (OR) signaling pathways, respectively. Among the top up-regulated genes were actin alpha 1 skeletal muscle (ACTA1) and desmin (DES). Similarly, in NL nerves ACTA1, DES and several RPs were highly expressed, associated with endothelial cells and pericytes abnormalities. Peripheral nerve involvement may be due to conversion towards a more aggressive phenotype, potentially explaining the poor prognosis. The candidate genes reported in this study may be a source of clinical biomarkers for NL.

Ligands and Beyond: Mechanosensitive Adhesion GPCRs

Cells respond to diverse types of mechanical stimuli using a wide range of plasma membrane-associated mechanosensitive receptors to convert extracellular mechanical cues into intracellular signaling. G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) represent the largest cell surface protein superfamily that function as versatile sensors for a broad spectrum of bio/chemical messages. In recent years, accumulating evidence has shown that GPCRs can also engage in mechano-transduction. According to the GRAFS classification system of GPCRs, adhesion GPCRs (aGPCRs) constitute the second largest GPCR subfamily with a unique modular protein architecture and post-translational modification that are well adapted for mechanosensory functions. Here, we present a critical review of current evidence on mechanosensitive aGPCRs.

Biomaterial-based strategies for in vitro neural models

In vitro models have been used as a complementary tool to animal studies in understanding the nervous system's physiological mechanisms and pathological disorders, while also serving as platforms to evaluate the safety and efficiency of therapeutic candidates. Following recent advances in materials science, micro- and nanofabrication techniques and cell culture systems, in vitro technologies have been rapidly gaining the potential to bridge the gap between animal and clinical studies by providing more sophisticated models that recapitulate key aspects of the structure, biochemistry, biomechanics, and functions of human tissues. This was made possible, in large part, by the development of biomaterials that provide cells with physicochemical features that closely mimic the cellular microenvironment of native tissues. Due to the well-known material-driven cellular response and the importance of mimicking the environment of the target tissue, the selection of optimal biomaterials represents an important early step in the design of biomimetic systems to investigate brain structures and functions. This review provides a comprehensive compendium of commonly used biomaterials as well as the different fabrication techniques employed for the design of neural tissue models. Furthermore, the authors discuss the main parameters that need to be considered to develop functional platforms not only for the study of brain physiological functions and pathological processes but also for drug discovery/development and the optimization of biomaterials for neural tissue engineering.

Cardiac ECM: Its Epigenetic Regulation and Role in Heart Development and Repair

The extracellular matrix (ECM) is the non-cellular component in the cardiac microenvironment, and serves essential structural and regulatory roles in establishing and maintaining tissue architecture and cellular function. The patterns of molecular and biochemical ECM alterations in developing and adult hearts depend on the underlying injury type. In addition to exploring how the ECM regulates heart structure and function in heart development and repair, this review conducts an inclusive discussion of recent developments in the role, function, and epigenetic guidelines of the ECM. Moreover, it contributes to the development of new therapeutics for cardiovascular disease.

SDF-1α gene-activated collagen scaffold drives functional differentiation of human Schwann cells for wound healing applications

Enhancing angiogenesis is the prime target of current biomaterial-based wound healing strategies. However, these approaches largely overlook the angiogenic role of the cells of the nervous system. Therefore, we explored the role of a collagen-chondroitin sulfate scaffold functionalized with a proangiogenic gene stromal-derived factor-1α (SDF-1α)-an SDF-1α gene-activated scaffold on the functional regulation of human Schwann cells (SCs). A preliminary 2D study was conducted by delivering plasmids encoding for the SDF-1α gene into a monolayer of SCs using polyethyleneimine-based nanoparticles. The delivery of the SDF-1α gene into the SCs enhanced the production of proangiogenic vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Subsequently, we investigated the impact of SDF-1α gene-activated scaffold (3D) on the SCs for 2 weeks, using a gene-free scaffold as control. The transfection of the SCs within the gene-activated scaffold resulted in transient overexpression of SDF-1α transcripts and triggered the production of bioactive VEGF that enhanced endothelial angiogenesis. The overexpression of SDF-1α also caused transient activation of the transcription factor c-Jun and supported the differentiation of SCs towards a repair phenotype. This was characterized by elevated expression of neurotrophin receptor p75NGFR. During this developmental stage, the SCs also performed an extensive remodelling of the basement matrix (fibronectin, collagen IV, and laminin) to enrich their environment with the pro-neurogenic matrix protein laminin, revealing an enhanced pro-neurogenic behavior. Together, this study shows that SDF-1α gene-activated scaffold is a highly bioinstructive scaffold capable of enhancing proangiogenic regenerative response in human SCs for improved wound healing.

LAMA2 Neuropathies: Human Findings and Pathomechanisms From Mouse Models

Merosin deficient Congenital Muscular Dystrophy (MDC1A), or LAMA2-related muscular dystrophy (LAMA2-RD), is a recessive disorder resulting from mutations in the LAMA2 gene, encoding for the alpha-2 chain of laminin-211. The disease is predominantly characterized by progressive muscular dystrophy affecting patient motor function and reducing life expectancy. However, LAMA2-RD also comprises a developmentally-associated dysmyelinating neuropathy that contributes to the disease progression, in addition to brain abnormalities; the latter often underappreciated. In this brief review, we present data supporting the impact of peripheral neuropathy in the LAMA2-RD phenotype, including both mouse models and human studies. We discuss the molecular mechanisms underlying nerve abnormalities and involved in the laminin-211 pathway, which affects axon sorting, ensheathing and myelination. We conclude with some final considerations of consequences on nerve regeneration and potential therapeutic strategies.

A Family of Laminin α2 Chain-Deficient Mouse Mutants: Advancing the Research on LAMA2-CMD

The research on laminin α2 chain-deficient congenital muscular dystrophy (LAMA2-CMD) advanced rapidly in the last few decades, largely due to availability of good mouse models for the disease and a strong interest in preclinical studies from scientists all over the world. These mouse models continue to provide a solid platform for understanding the LAMA2-CMD pathology. In addition, they enable researchers to test laborious, necessary routines, but also the most creative scientific approaches in order to design therapy for this devastating disorder. In this review we present animals belonging to the laminin α2 chain-deficient “dy/dy” mouse family (dy/dy, dy^2J/dy^2J, dy^3K/dy^3K, dy^W/dy^W, et al.) and a summary of the scientific progress they facilitated. We also raise a few questions that need to be addressed in order to maximize the usefulness of laminin α2 murine mutants and to further advance the LAMA2-CMD studies. We believe that research opportunities offered by the mouse models for LAMA2-CMD will continuously support our efforts to find a treatment for the disease.

Collagen XV, a multifaceted multiplexin present across tissues and species

Type XV collagen is a non-fibrillar collagen that is associated with basement membranes and belongs to the multiplexin subset of the collagen superfamily. Collagen XV was initially studied because of its sequence homology with collagen XVIII/endostatin whose anti-angiogenic and anti-tumorigenic properties were subjects of wide interest in the past years. But during the last fifteen years, collagen XV has gained growing attention with increasing number of studies that have attributed new functions to this widely distributed collagen/proteoglycan hybrid molecule. Despite the cumulative evidence of its functional pleiotropy and its evolutionary conserved function, no review compiling the current state of the art about collagen XV is currently available. Here, we thus provide the first comprehensive view of the knowledge gathered so far on the molecular structure, tissue distribution and functions of collagen XV in development, tissue homeostasis and disease with an evolutionary perspective. We hope that our review will open new roads for promising research on collagen XV in the coming years.

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Type XV collagen belongs to the multiplexin subset of the collagen superfamily.

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It is evolutionarily conserved collagen and associated with basement membranes.

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This collagen/proteoglycan hybrid molecule contains an anti-angiogenic restin domain.

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It has important functions in the cardiovascular and the neuromuscular systems.

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Its expression is dysregulated in various diseases including cancers.

Application of Immunohistochemistry in Basic and Clinical Studies

Immunohistochemistry (IHC), also known as immunohistochemical staining, is an immune morphological analysis. It is a process of selectively identifying antigens (proteins) by antibodies in cells or tissue sections. This chapter introduces the procedure and application of immunohistochemistry. Although immunohistochemistry has a vast application in basic and clinical studies, this chapter focuses on its application in biomarker study, particularly in biomarkers that related to cancer diagnosis, prognosis, and drug development. Detail protocol of immunohistochemistry in formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded tissue sections is included.

Linker Protein Repair of LAMA2 Dystrophic Neuromuscular Basement Membranes

An understanding of basement membrane (BM) assembly at a molecular level provides a foundation with which to develop repair strategies for diseases with defects of BM structure. As currently understood, laminins become anchored to cell surfaces through receptor-mediated interactions and polymerize. This provisional matrix binds to proteoglycans, nidogens and type IV collagen to form a mature BM. Identification of BM binding domains and their binding targets has enabled investigators to engineer proteins that link BM components to modify and improve their functions. This approach is illustrated by the development of two linker proteins to repair the LAMA2-deficient muscular dystrophy (LAMA2-MD). Dystrophy-causing mutations of the LAMA2 gene product (Lmα2) disrupt the BM molecular architecture, destabilizing it. In a mild ambulatory type of the dystrophy, α2LN mutations in laminin-211 prevents polymerization. In the more common and severe non-ambulatory type (MDC1A), an absent Lmα2 subunit is replaced by the naturally occurring Lmα4 subunit that is normally largely confined to the microvasculature. The compensatory laminin, however, is a poor substitute because it neither polymerizes nor binds adequately to the anchoring receptor α-dystroglycan. A chimeric laminin-binding protein called αLNNd enables laminins with defective or absent αLN domains to polymerize while another engineered protein, miniagrin (mag), promotes efficient α-dystroglycan receptor-binding in otherwise weakly adhesive laminins. Alone, αLNNd enables Lm211 with a self-assembly defect to polymerize and was used to ameliorate a mouse model of the ambulatory dystrophy. Together, these linker proteins alter Lm411 such that it both polymerizes and binds αDG such that it properly assembles. This combination was used to ameliorate a mouse model of the non-ambulatory dystrophy in which Lm411 replaced Lm211 as seen in the human disease. Collectively, these studies pave the way for the development of somatic gene delivery of repair proteins for treatment of LAMA2-MD. The studies further suggest a more general approach of linker-protein mediated repair in which a variety of existing BM protein domains can be combined together to stabilize BMs in other diseases.

Tissue Inhibitor of Metalloproteinase-3 Promotes Schwann Cell Myelination

Tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-3 (TIMP-3) inhibits the activities of various metalloproteinases including matrix metalloproteinases and ADAM family proteins. In the peripheral nervous system, ADAM17, also known as TNF-α converting enzyme (TACE), cleaves the extracellular domain of Nrg1 type III, an axonal growth factor that is essential for Schwann cell myelination. The processing by ADAM17 attenuates Nrg1 signaling and inhibits Schwann cell myelination. TIMP-3 targets ADAM17, suggesting a possibility that TIMP-3 may elicit a promyelinating function in Schwann cells by relieving ADAM17-induced myelination block. To investigate this, we used a myelinating coculture system to determine the effect of TIMP-3 on Schwann cell myelination. Treatment with TIMP-3 enhanced myelin formation in cocultures, evident by an increase in the number of myelin segments and upregulated expression of Krox20 and myelin protein. The effect of TIMP-3 was accompanied by the inhibition of ADAM17 activity and an increase in Nrg1 type III signaling in cocultures. Accordingly, the N-terminus fragment of TIMP-3, which exhibits a selective inhibitory function toward ADAM17, elicited a similar myelination-promoting effect and increased Nrg1 type III activity. TIMP-3 also enhanced laminin production in cocultures, which is likely to aid Schwann cell myelination.

Chimeric protein identification of dystrophic, Pierson and other laminin polymerization residues

Laminin polymerization is a key step of basement membrane self-assembly that depends on the binding of the three different N-terminal globular LN domains. Several mutations in the LN domains cause LAMA2-deficient muscular dystrophy and LAMB2-deficient Pierson syndrome. These mutations may affect polymerization. A novel approach to identify the amino acid residues required for polymerization has been applied to an analysis of these and other laminin LN mutations. The approach utilizes laminin-nidogen chimeric fusion proteins that bind to recombinant non-polymerizing laminins to provide a missing functional LN domain. Single amino acid substitutions introduced into these chimeras were tested to determine if polymerization activity and the ability to assemble on cell surfaces were lost. Several laminin-deficient muscular dystrophy mutations, renal Pierson syndrome mutations, and Drosophila mutations causing defects of heart development were identified as ones causing loss of laminin polymerization. In addition, two novel residues required for polymerization were identified in the laminin γ1 LN domain.

Linker proteins restore basement membrane and correct LAMA2-related muscular dystrophy in mice

LAMA2-related muscular dystrophy (LAMA2 MD or MDC1A) is the most frequent form of early-onset, fatal congenital muscular dystrophies. It is caused by mutations in LAMA2, the gene encoding laminin-α2, the long arm of the heterotrimeric (α2, β1, and γ1) basement membrane protein laminin-211 (Lm-211). We establish that despite compensatory expression of laminin-α4, giving rise to Lm-411 (α4, β1, and γ1), muscle basement membrane is labile in LAMA2 MD biopsies. Consistent with this deficit, recombinant Lm-411 polymerized and bound to cultured myotubes only weakly. Polymerization and cell binding of Lm-411 were enhanced by addition of two specifically designed linker proteins. One, called αLNNd, consists of the N-terminal part of laminin-α1 and the laminin-binding site of nidogen-1. The second, called mini-agrin (mag), contains binding sites for laminins and α-dystroglycan. Transgenic expression of mag and αLNNd in a mouse model for LAMA2 MD fully restored basement membrane stability, recovered muscle force and size, increased overall body weight, and extended life span more than five times to a maximum survival beyond 2 years. These findings provide a mechanistic understanding of LAMA2 MD and establish a strong basis for a potential treatment.

A Physicochemically Optimized and Neuroconductive Biphasic Nerve Guidance Conduit for Peripheral Nerve Repair

Clinically available hollow nerve guidance conduits (NGCs) have had limited success in treating large peripheral nerve injuries. This study aims to develop a biphasic NGC combining a physicochemically optimized collagen outer conduit to bridge the transected nerve, and a neuroconductive hyaluronic acid-based luminal filler to support regeneration. The outer conduit is mechanically optimized by manipulating crosslinking and collagen density, allowing the engineering of a high wall permeability to mitigate the risk of neuroma formation, while also maintaining physiologically relevant stiffness and enzymatic degradation tuned to coincide with regeneration rates. Freeze-drying is used to seamlessly integrate the luminal filler into the conduit, creating a longitudinally aligned pore microarchitecture. The luminal stiffness is modulated to support Schwann cells, with laminin incorporation further enhancing bioactivity by improving cell attachment and metabolic activity. Additionally, this biphasic NGC is shown to support neurogenesis and gliogenesis of neural progenitor cells and axonal outgrowth from dorsal root ganglia. These findings highlight the paradigm that a successful NGC requires the concerted optimization of both a mechanical support phase capable of bridging a nerve defect and a neuroconductive phase with an architecture capable of supporting both Schwann cells and neurons in order to achieve functional regenerative outcome.

Olfactory Derived Stem Cells Delivered in a Biphasic Conduit Promote Peripheral Nerve Repair In Vivo

Peripheral nerve injury presents significant therapeutic challenges for recovery of motor and sensory function in patients. Different clinical approaches exist but to date there has been no consensus on the most effective method of treatment. Here, we investigate a novel approach to peripheral nerve repair using olfactory derived stem (ONS) cells delivered in a biphasic collagen and laminin functionalized hyaluronic acid based nerve guidance conduit (NGC). Nerve regeneration was studied across a 10-mm sciatic nerve gap in Sprague Dawley rats. The effect of ONS cell loading of NGCs with or without nerve growth factor (NGF) supplementation on nerve repair was compared to a cell-free NGC across a variety of clinical, functional, electrophysiological, and morphologic parameters. Animals implanted with ONS cell loaded NGCs demonstrated improved clinical and electrophysiological outcomes compared to cell free NGC controls. The nerves regenerated across ONS cell loaded NGCs contained significantly more axons than cell-free NGCs. A return of the nocioceptive withdrawal reflex in ONS cell treated animals indicated an advanced repair stage at a relatively early time point of 8 weeks post implantation. The addition of NGF further improved the outcomes of the repair indicating the potential beneficial effect of a combined stem cell/growth factor treatment strategy delivered on NGCs. Stem Cells Translational Medicine 2017;6:1894-1904.

Laminin 211 inhibits protein kinase A in Schwann cells to modulate neuregulin 1 type III-driven myelination

Myelin is required for proper nervous system function. Schwann cells in developing nerves depend on extrinsic signals from the axon and from the extracellular matrix to first sort and ensheathe a single axon and then myelinate it. Neuregulin 1 type III (Nrg1III) and laminin α2β1γ1 (Lm211) are the key axonal and matrix signals, respectively, but how their signaling is integrated and if each molecule controls both axonal sorting and myelination is unclear. Here, we use a series of epistasis experiments to show that Lm211 modulates neuregulin signaling to ensure the correct timing and amount of myelination. Lm211 can inhibit Nrg1III by limiting protein kinase A (PKA) activation, which is required to initiate myelination. We provide evidence that excessive PKA activation amplifies promyelinating signals downstream of neuregulin, including direct activation of the neuregulin receptor ErbB2 and its effector Grb2-Associated Binder-1 (Gab1), thereby elevating the expression of the key transcription factors Oct6 and early growth response protein 2 (Egr2). The inhibitory effect of Lm211 is seen only in fibers of small caliber. These data may explain why hereditary neuropathies associated with decreased laminin function are characterized by focally thick and redundant myelin.

Adult-onset demyelinating neuropathy associated with FBLN5 gene mutation

Rare forms of autosomal-dominant Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (AD-CMT) may be associated with mutations in Fibulin-5 (FBLN5) as AD-CMT is genetically heterogeneous. Here, we report the first pathological study of an Asian family. The proband was a 46-year-old man with slowly progressive distal numbness and weakness for 12 years. He had a history of diabetes mellitus for 12 years. His mother was 81 years old and had mild polyneuropathy. His 16-year-old daughter was asymptomatic. The nerve conduction velocities (NCVs) and compound muscular action potential (CMAP) amplitudes were moderately to severely reduced in the proband, and moderately reduced in his daughter and mother. A sensory response could not be elicited in the proband and was moderately to severely decreased in the daughter and mother. Nerve ultrasound indicated a general enlargement of the peripheral nerves in the proband, daughter, and mother. A sural nerve biopsy from the proband demonstrated a pronounced depletion of myelinated fibers, thin myelinated fibers, and onion-bulb formations. A reported heterozygous mutation of c.1117C>T in FBLN5 was identified in the proband, mother, and daughter. These findings confirm a novel subtype of AD-CMT 1 due to a mutation in the FBLN5 gene.

Biofunctionalization of Nerve Interface via Biocompatible Polymer-Roughened Pt Black on Cuff Electrode for Chronic Recording

Peripheral nerve cuff electrodes with roughened Pt black (BPt) are coated with polyethylene glycol (PEG) and Nafion (NF). Although the influence of coated PEG and Nafion on roughened BPt on the electrical properties is weak, the cuff electrode with BPt/PEG and BPt/Nafion exhibits some very important properties. For example, it markedly decreases interfacial impedance, increases charge storage capacity (CSC) due to retaining the BPt surface structure, good stability without exfoliation in repetitive cyclic voltammetry scanning because it is protected by PEG or Nafion coating. In cell viability test, Nafion-coated BPt does not show cytotoxicity to rat Schwann cell line (S16) at 24 and 72 h with the Nafion coating ranging from 0.1 to 10 mg cm^-2 . In addition, real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis indicates that Schwann cell differentiation (S100 calcium-binding protein B, myelin basic protein, peripheral myelin protein 22), proliferation (proliferating cell nuclear antigen, cyclin-dependent kinase 1 (CDK1)), and adhesion molecules (neural cell adhesion molecule, laminin, fibronectin) are upregulated up to 5 mg cm^-2 of Nafion. In animal study, the BPt/Nafion reduces infiltration of fibrotic tissue with high axonal maintenance with upregulation of proliferation (CDK1), adhesion (laminin, neuronal cell adhesion molecule), and neurotrophic factor receptor-related (gdnf family receptor alpha 1) mRNA expressions.

Chimeric protein repair of laminin polymerization ameliorates muscular dystrophy phenotype

Mutations in laminin α2-subunit (Lmα2, encoded by LAMA2) are linked to approximately 30% of congenital muscular dystrophy cases. Mice with a homozygous mutation in Lama2 (dy2J mice) express a nonpolymerizing form of laminin-211 (Lm211) and are a model for ambulatory-type Lmα2-deficient muscular dystrophy. Here, we developed transgenic dy2J mice with muscle-specific expression of αLNNd, a laminin/nidogen chimeric protein that provides a missing polymerization domain. Muscle-specific expression of αLNNd in dy2J mice resulted in strong amelioration of the dystrophic phenotype, manifested by the prevention of fibrosis and restoration of forelimb grip strength. αLNNd also restored myofiber shape, size, and numbers to control levels in dy2J mice. Laminin immunostaining and quantitation of tissue extractions revealed increased Lm211 expression in αLNNd-transgenic dy2J mice. In cultured myotubes, we determined that αLNNd expression increased myotube surface accumulation of polymerization-deficient recombinant laminins, with retention of collagen IV, reiterating the basement membrane (BM) changes observed in vivo. Laminin LN domain mutations linked to several of the Lmα2-deficient muscular dystrophies are predicted to compromise polymerization. The data herein support the hypothesis that engineered expression of αLNNd can overcome polymerization deficits to increase laminin, stabilize BM structure, and substantially ameliorate muscular dystrophy.

Self-assembling peptide nanostructures on aligned poly(lactide-co-glycolide) nanofibers for the functional regeneration of sciatic nerve

Aim: Regeneration of functional peripheral nerve tissue at critical-sized defect requires extracellular matrix analogs impregnated with appropriate biosignals to regulate the cell fate process and subsequent tissue progression. The aim of the study was to develop electrospun aligned nanofibers as architectural analogs integrated with RADA16-I-BMHP1 as biofunctional peptides. Materials & methods: Aligned poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA)-RADA16-I-BMHP1 nanofibers were fabricated and characterized for their in vitro potential using rat Schwann cell line and in vivo potential using a 10 mm sciatic nerve transection rat model. Results: PLGA-peptide scaffolds significantly promoted higher expression of genotypic markers and bipolar extension of Schwann cells. Further, PLGA-peptide treated animals promoted the native collagen organization, remyelination and showed significantly higher recovery of sensorimotor and motor function than PLGA-treated groups (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Our results demonstrate that self-assembling peptide nanostructures on aligned PLGA nanofibers provided better cell–matrix communication with significant functional restoration of the sciatic nerve.

The nature and biology of basement membranes

Basement membranes are delicate, nanoscale and pliable sheets of extracellular matrices that often act as linings or partitions in organisms. Previously considered as passive scaffolds segregating polarized cells, such as epithelial or endothelial cells, from the underlying mesenchyme, basement membranes have now reached the center stage of biology. They play a multitude of roles from blood filtration to muscle homeostasis, from storing growth factors and cytokines to controlling angiogenesis and tumor growth, from maintaining skin integrity and neuromuscular structure to affecting adipogenesis and fibrosis. Here, we will address developmental, structural and biochemical aspects of basement membranes and discuss some of the pathogenetic mechanisms causing diseases linked to abnormal basement membranes.

Integrin and dystroglycan compensate each other to mediate laminin-dependent basement membrane assembly and epiblast polarization

During early embryogenesis, endodermal γ1-laminin expression is required for basement membrane (BM) assembly, promoting conversion of non-polar pluripotent cells into polarized epiblast. The influence of laminin-111 (Lm111) and its integrin and dystroglycan (DG) receptors on epiblast in embryoid bodies (EBs), a model for differentiation of the embryonic plate, was further investigated. Lm111 added to the medium of EBs initiated conversion of inner nonpolar cell to the polarized epiblast epithelium with an exterior-to-central basal-to-apical orientation. Microinjection of Lm111 into EB interiors resulted in an interior BM with complete inversion of cell polarity. Lm111 assembled a BM on integrin-β1 null EBs with induction of polarization at reduced efficiency. β-Integrin compensation was not detected in these nulls with integrin adaptor proteins failing to assemble. A dimer of laminin LG domains 4-5 (LZE3) engineered to strongly bind to α-dystroglycan almost completely inhibited laminin accumulation on integrin β1-null EBs, reducing BM and ablating cell polarization. When Lm111 was incubated with integrin-β1/dystroglycan double-knockout EBs, laminin failed to accumulate on the EBs, the EBs did not differentiate, and the EBs underwent apoptosis. Collectively the findings support the hypotheses that the locus of laminin cell surface assembly can determine the axis of epithelial polarity. This requires integrin- and/or dystroglycan-dependent binding to laminin LG domains with the highest efficiency achieved when both receptors are present. Finally, EBs that cannot assemble a matrix undergo apoptosis.

YAP and TAZ control peripheral myelination and the expression of laminin receptors in Schwann cells

Myelination is essential for nervous system function. Schwann cells interact with neurons and the basal lamina to myelinate axons, using known receptors, signals and transcription factors. In contrast, the transcriptional control of axonal sorting and the role of mechanotransduction in myelination are largely unknown. Yap and Taz are effectors of the Hippo pathway that integrate chemical and mechanical signals in cells. We describe a previously unknown role for the Hippo pathway in myelination. Using conditional mutagenesis in mice we show that Taz is required in Schwann cells for radial sorting and myelination, and that Yap is redundant with Taz. Yap/Taz are activated in Schwann cells by mechanical stimuli, and regulate Schwann cell proliferation and transcription of basal lamina receptor genes, both necessary for proper radial sorting of axons and subsequent myelination. These data link transcriptional effectors of the Hippo pathway and of mechanotransduction to myelin formation in Schwann cells.

Is spinal muscular atrophy a disease of the motor neurons only: pathogenesis and therapeutic implications?

Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a genetic neurological disease that causes infant mortality; no effective therapies are currently available. SMA is due to homozygous mutations and/or deletions in the survival motor neuron 1 gene and subsequent reduction of the SMN protein, leading to the death of motor neurons. However, there is increasing evidence that in addition to motor neurons, other cell types are contributing to SMA pathology. In this review, we will discuss the involvement of non-motor neuronal cells, located both inside and outside the central nervous system, in disease onset and progression. Even if SMN restoration in motor neurons is needed, it has been shown that optimal phenotypic amelioration in animal models of SMA requires a more widespread SMN correction. It has been demonstrated that non-motor neuronal cells are also involved in disease pathogenesis and could have important therapeutic implications. For these reasons it will be crucial to take this evidence into account for the clinical translation of the novel therapeutic approaches.

Laminin-binding integrin gene copy number alterations in distinct epithelial-type cancers

BACKGROUND

The laminin-binding integrin (LBI) family are cell adhesion molecules that are essential for invasion and metastasis of human epithelial cancers and cell adhesion mediated drug resistance. We investigated whether copy number alteration (CNA) or mutations of a five-gene signature (ITGB4, ITGA3, LAMB3, PLEC, and SYNE3), representing essential genes for LBI adhesion, would correlate with patient outcomes within human epithelial-type tumor data sets currently available in an open access format.

METHODS

We investigated the relative alteration frequency of an LBI signature panel (integrin β4 (ITGB4), integrin α3 (ITGA3), laminin β3 chain (LAMB3), plectin (PLEC), and nesprin 3 (SYNE3)), independent of the epithelial cancer type, within publically available and published data using cBioPortal and Oncomine software. We rank ordered the results using a 20% alteration frequency cut-off and limited the analysis to studies containing at least 100 samples. Kaplan-Meier survival curves were analyzed to determine if alterations in the LBI signature correlated with patient survival. The Oncomine data mining tool was used to compare the heat map expression of the LBI signature without SYNE3 (as this was not included in the Oncomine database) to drug resistance patterns.

RESULTS

Twelve different cancer types, representing 5,647 samples, contained at least a 20% alteration frequency of the five-gene LBI signature. The frequency of alteration ranged from 38.3% to 19.8%. Within the LBI signature, PLEC was the most commonly altered followed by LAMB3, ITGB4, ITGA3, and SYNE3 across all twelve cancer types. Within cancer types, there was little overlap of the individual amplified genes from each sample, suggesting different specific amplicons may alter the LBI adhesion structures. Of the twelve cancer types, overall survival was altered by CNA presence in bladder urothelial carcinoma (p=0.0143*) and cervical squamous cell carcinoma and endocervical adenocarcinoma (p=0.0432*). Querying the in vitro drug resistance profiles with the LBI signature demonstrated a positive correlation with cells resistant to inhibitors of HDAC (Vorinostat, Panobinostat) and topoisomerase II (Irinotecan). No correlation was found with the following agents: Bleomycin, Doxorubicin, Methotrexate, Gemcitabine, Docetaxel, Bortezomib, and Shikonen.

CONCLUSIONS

Our work has identified epithelial-types of human cancer that have significant CNA in our selected five-gene signature, which was based on the essential and genetically-defined functions of the protein product networks (in this case, the LBI axis). CNA of the gene signature not only predicted overall survival in bladder, cervical, and endocervical adenocarcinoma but also response to chemotherapy. This work suggests that future studies designed to optimize the gene signature are warranted.

GENERAL SIGNIFICANCE

The copy number alteration of structural components of the LBI axis in epithelial-type tumors may be promising biomarkers and rational targets for personalized therapy in preventing or arresting metastatic spread.

Schwann cell myelination

Myelinated nerve fibers are essential for the rapid propagation of action potentials by saltatory conduction. They form as the result of reciprocal interactions between axons and Schwann cells. Extrinsic signals from the axon, and the extracellular matrix, drive Schwann cells to adopt a myelinating fate, whereas myelination reorganizes the axon for its role in conduction and is essential for its integrity. Here, we review our current understanding of the development, molecular organization, and function of myelinating Schwann cells. Recent findings into the extrinsic signals that drive Schwann cell myelination, their cognate receptors, and the downstream intracellular signaling pathways they activate will be described. Together, these studies provide important new insights into how these pathways converge to activate the transcriptional cascade of myelination and remodel the actin cytoskeleton that is critical for morphogenesis of the myelin sheath.

Adhesion G Protein-Coupled Receptors: From In Vitro Pharmacology to In Vivo Mechanisms

The adhesion family of G protein-coupled receptors (aGPCRs) comprises 33 members in humans. aGPCRs are characterized by their enormous size and complex modular structures. While the physiologic importance of many aGPCRs has been clearly demonstrated in recent years, the underlying molecular functions have only recently begun to be elucidated. In this minireview, we present an overview of our current knowledge on aGPCR activation and signal transduction with a focus on the latest findings regarding the interplay between ligand binding, mechanical force, and the tethered agonistic Stachel sequence, as well as implications on translational approaches that may derive from understanding aGPCR pharmacology.

The adhesion GPCR GPR126 has distinct, domain-dependent functions in Schwann cell development mediated by interaction with laminin-211

Myelin ensheathes axons to allow rapid propagation of action potentials and proper nervous system function. In the peripheral nervous system, Schwann cells (SCs) radially sort axons into a 1:1 relationship before wrapping an axonal segment to form myelin. SC myelination requires the adhesion G protein-coupled receptor GPR126, which undergoes autoproteolytic cleavage into an N-terminal fragment (NTF) and a seven-transmembrane-containing C-terminal fragment (CTF). Here we show that GPR126 has domain-specific functions in SC development whereby the NTF is necessary and sufficient for axon sorting, whereas the CTF promotes wrapping through cAMP elevation. These biphasic roles of GPR126 are governed by interactions with Laminin-211, which we define as a novel ligand for GPR126 that modulates receptor signaling via a tethered agonist. Our work suggests a model in which Laminin-211 mediates GPR126-induced cAMP levels to control early and late stages of SC development.

Integrin α3β1 regulates kidney collecting duct development via TRAF6-dependent K63-linked polyubiquitination of Akt

This study demonstrates that integrin α3β1 interactions with both α3- and α5-containing laminins regulate ureteric bud (UB) development by functionally modulating the Akt signaling pathway. In addition, the work done shows that K63-linked polyubiquitination plays a previously unrecognized role in integrin α3β1–dependent cell signaling required for UB development and that this may be a novel general mechanism whereby integrins regulate signaling pathways.

The collecting system of the kidney develops from the ureteric bud (UB), which undergoes branching morphogenesis, a process regulated by multiple factors, including integrin–extracellular matrix interactions. The laminin (LM)-binding integrin α3β1 is crucial for this developmental program; however, the LM types and LM/integrin α3β1–dependent signaling pathways are poorly defined. We show that α3 chain–containing LMs promote normal UB branching morphogenesis and that LM-332 is a better substrate than LM-511 for stimulating integrin α3β1–dependent collecting duct cell functions. We demonstrate that integrin α3β1–mediated cell adhesion to LM-332 modulates Akt activation in the developing collecting system and that Akt activation is PI3K independent but requires decreased PTEN activity and K63-linked polyubiquitination. We identified the ubiquitin-modifying enzyme TRAF6 as an interactor with the integrin β1 subunit and regulator of integrin α3β1–dependent Akt activation. Finally, we established that the developmental defects of TRAF6- and integrin α3–null mouse kidneys are similar. Thus K63-linked polyubiquitination plays a previously unrecognized role in integrin α3β1–dependent cell signaling required for UB development and may represent a novel mechanism whereby integrins regulate signaling pathways.

Dynamic regulation of Schwann cell enhancers after peripheral nerve injury

Myelination of the peripheral nervous system is required for axonal function and long term stability. After peripheral nerve injury, Schwann cells transition from axon myelination to a demyelinated state that supports neuronal survival and ultimately remyelination of axons. Reprogramming of gene expression patterns during development and injury responses is shaped by the actions of distal regulatory elements that integrate the actions of multiple transcription factors. We used ChIP-seq to measure changes in histone H3K27 acetylation, a mark of active enhancers, to identify enhancers in myelinating rat peripheral nerve and their dynamics after demyelinating nerve injury. Analysis of injury-induced enhancers identified enriched motifs for c-Jun, a transcription factor required for Schwann cells to support nerve regeneration. We identify a c-Jun-bound enhancer in the gene for Runx2, a transcription factor induced after nerve injury, and we show that Runx2 is required for activation of other induced genes. In contrast, enhancers that lose H3K27ac after nerve injury are enriched for binding sites of the Sox10 and early growth response 2 (Egr2/Krox20) transcription factors, which are critical determinants of Schwann cell differentiation. Egr2 expression is lost after nerve injury, and many Egr2-binding sites lose H3K27ac after nerve injury. However, the majority of Egr2-bound enhancers retain H3K27ac, indicating that other transcription factors maintain active enhancer status after nerve injury. The global epigenomic changes in H3K27ac deposition pinpoint dynamic changes in enhancers that mediate the effects of transcription factors that control Schwann cell myelination and peripheral nervous system responses to nerve injury.

A fibrin matrix promotes the differentiation of EMSCs isolated from nasal respiratory mucosa to myelinating phenotypical Schwann-like cells

Because Schwann cells perform the triple tasks of myelination, axon guidance and neurotrophin synthesis, they are candidates for cell transplantation that might cure some types of nervous-system degenerative diseases or injuries. However, Schwann cells are difficult to obtain. As another option, ectomesenchymal stem cells (EMSCs) can be easily harvested from the nasal respiratory mucosa. Whether fibrin, an important transplantation vehicle, can improve the differentiation of EMSCs into Schwann-like cells (SLCs) deserves further research. EMSCs were isolated from rat nasal respiratory mucosa and were purified using anti-CD133 magnetic cell sorting. The purified cells strongly expressed HNK-1, nestin, p75(NTR), S-100, and vimentin. Using nuclear staining, the MTT assay and Western blotting analysis of the expression of cell-cycle markers, the proliferation rate of EMSCs on a fibrin matrix was found to be significantly higher than that of cells grown on a plastic surface but insignificantly lower than that of cells grown on fibronectin. Additionally, the EMSCs grown on the fibrin matrix expressed myelination-related molecules, including myelin basic protein (MBP), 2',3'-cyclic nucleotide 3'-phosphodiesterase (CNPase) and galactocerebrosides (GalCer), more strongly than did those grown on fibronectin or a plastic surface. Furthermore, the EMSCs grown on the fibrin matrix synthesized more neurotrophins compared with those grown on fibronectin or a plastic surface. The expression level of integrin in EMSCs grown on fibrin was similar to that of cells grown on fibronectin but was higher than that of cells grown on a plastic surface. These results demonstrated that fibrin not only promoted EMSC proliferation but also the differentiation of EMSCs into the SLCs. Our findings suggested that fibrin has great promise as a cell transplantation vehicle for the treatment of some types of nervous system diseases or injuries.

Giant scaffolding protein AHNAK1 interacts with β-dystroglycan and controls motility and mechanical properties of Schwann cells

The profound morphofunctional changes that Schwann cells (SCs) undergo during their migration and elongation on axons, as well as during axon sorting, ensheathment, and myelination, require their close interaction with the surrounding laminin-rich basal lamina. In contrast to myelinating central nervous system glia, SCs strongly and constitutively express the giant scaffolding protein AHNAK1, localized essentially underneath the outer, abaxonal plasma membrane. Using electron microscopy, we show here that in the sciatic nerve of ahnak1(-) (/) (-) mice the ultrastructure of myelinated, and unmyelinated (Remak) fibers is affected. The major SC laminin receptor β-dystroglycan co-immunoprecipitates with AHNAK1 shows reduced expression in ahnak1(-) (/) (-) SCs, and is no longer detectable in Cajal bands on myelinated fibers in ahnak1(-) (/) (-) sciatic nerve. Reduced migration velocity in a scratch wound assay of purified ahnak1(-) (/) (-) primary SCs cultured on a laminin substrate indicated a function of AHNAK1 in SC motility. This was corroborated by atomic force microscopy measurements, which revealed a greater mechanical rigidity of shaft and leading tip of ahnak1(-) (/) (-) SC processes. Internodal lengths of large fibers are decreased in ahnak1(-) (/) (-) sciatic nerve, and longitudinal extension of myelin segments is even more strongly reduced after acute knockdown of AHNAK1 in SCs of developing sciatic nerve. Together, our results suggest that by interfering in the cross-talk between the transmembrane form of the laminin receptor dystroglycan and F-actin, AHNAK1 influences the cytoskeleton organization of SCs, and thus plays a role in the regulation of their morphology and motility and lastly, the myelination process.

α6β1 and α7β1 integrins are required in Schwann cells to sort axons

During development, Schwann cells extend lamellipodia-like processes to segregate large- and small-caliber axons during the process of radial sorting. Radial sorting is a prerequisite for myelination and is arrested in human neuropathies because of laminin deficiency. Experiments in mice using targeted mutagenesis have confirmed that laminins 211, 411, and receptors containing the β1 integrin subunit are required for radial sorting; however, which of the 11 α integrins that can pair with β1 forms the functional receptor is unknown. Here we conditionally deleted all the α subunits that form predominant laminin-binding β1 integrins in Schwann cells and show that only α6β1 and α7β1 integrins are required and that α7β1 compensates for the absence of α6β1 during development. The absence of either α7β1 or α6β1 integrin impairs the ability of Schwann cells to spread and to bind laminin 211 or 411, potentially explaining the failure to extend cytoplasmic processes around axons to sort them. However, double α6/α7 integrin mutants show only a subset of the abnormalities found in mutants lacking all β1 integrins, and a milder phenotype. Double-mutant Schwann cells can properly activate all the major signaling pathways associated with radial sorting and show normal Schwann cell proliferation and survival. Thus, α6β1 and α7β1 are the laminin-binding integrins required for axonal sorting, but other Schwann cell β1 integrins, possibly those that do not bind laminins, may also contribute to radial sorting during peripheral nerve development.

Neuronal merlin influences ERBB2 receptor expression on Schwann cells through neuregulin 1 type III signalling

Merlin mutations in Neurofibromatosis type 2 cause tumorigenic transformation of Schwann cells, leading to schwannoma development. Schulz et al. show that loss of neuronally expressed merlin alone increases the susceptibility of adjacent Schwann cells to mitogenic signals through the Neuregulin1-ErbB2/3 pathway.

Axonal surface proteins encompass a group of heterogeneous molecules, which exert a variety of different functions in the highly interdependent relationship between axons and Schwann cells. We recently revealed that the tumour suppressor protein merlin, mutated in the hereditary tumour syndrome neurofibromatosis type 2, impacts significantly on axon structure maintenance in the peripheral nervous system. We now report on a role of neuronal merlin in the regulation of the axonal surface protein neuregulin 1 important for modulating Schwann cell differentiation and myelination. Specifically, neuregulin 1 type III expression is reduced in sciatic nerve tissue of neuron-specific knockout animals as well as in biopsies from seven patients with neurofibromatosis type 2. In vitro experiments performed on both the P19 neuronal cell line and primary dorsal root ganglion cells demonstrate the influence of merlin on neuregulin 1 type III expression. Moreover, expression of ERBB2, a Schwann cell receptor for neuregulin 1 ligands is increased in nerve tissue of both neuron-specific merlin knockout animals and patients with neurofibromatosis type 2, demonstrating for the first time that axonal merlin indirectly regulates Schwann cell behaviour. Collectively, we have identified that neuronally expressed merlin can influence Schwann cell activity in a cell-extrinsic manner.

Myocilin mediates myelination in the peripheral nervous system through ErbB2/3 signaling

The glaucoma-associated gene, myocilin, is expressed in ocular and non-ocular tissues including the peripheral nervous system, but its functions in these tissues remain poorly understood. We demonstrate that in sciatic nerve, myocilin is expressed in Schwann cells with high concentrations at the nodes of Ranvier. There, myocilin interacts with gliomedin, neurofascin, and NrCAM, which are essential for node formation and function. Treatment of isolated dorsal root ganglion cultures with myocilin stimulates clustering of the nodal proteins neurofascin and sodium channel Nav1.2. Sciatic nerves of myocilin null mice express reduced levels of several myelin-associated and basal membrane proteins compared with those of wild-type littermates. They also demonstrate reduced myelin sheath thickness and partial disorganization of the nodes. Myocilin signaling through ErbB2/3 receptors may contribute to these observed effects. Myocilin binds to ErbB2/ErbB3, activates these receptors, and affects the downstream PI3K-AKT signaling pathway. These data implicate a role for myocilin in the development and/or maintenance of myelination and nodes of Ranvier in sciatic nerve.

Necl-4/SynCAM-4 is expressed in myelinating oligodendrocytes but not required for axonal myelination

The timing and progression of axonal myelination are precisely controlled by intercellular interactions between neurons and glia in development. Previous in vitro studies demonstrated that Nectin like 4 (Necl-4, also known as cell adhesion molecule Cadm-4 or SynCAM-4) plays an essential role in axonal myelination by Schwann cells in the peripheral nervous system (PNS). However, the role of Necl-4 protein in axonal myelination in the developing central nervous system (CNS) has remained unknown. In this study, we discovered upregulation of Necl-4 expression in mature oligodendrocytes at perinatal stages when axons undergo active myelination. We generated Necl4 gene knockout mice, but found that disruption of Necl-4 gene did not affect oligodendrocyte differentiation and myelin formation in the CNS. Surprisingly, disruption of Necl-4 had no significant effect on axonal myelination in the PNS either. Therefore, our results demonstrated that Necl-4 is dispensable for axonal myelination in the developing nervous system.