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Huang T, Zhang Y, Wang Z, Zeng Y, Wang N, Fan H, Huang Z, Su Y, Huang X, Chen H, Zhang K, Yi C. Optogenetically Controlled TrkA Activity Improves the Regenerative Capacity of Hair-Follicle-Derived Stem Cells to Differentiate into Neurons and Glia. Adv Biol (Weinh) 2020; 5:e2000134. [PMID: 32924336 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.202000134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Revised: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Hair-follicle-derived stem cells (HSCs) originating from the bulge region of the mouse vibrissa hair follicle are able to differentiate into neuronal and glial lineage cells. The tropomyosin receptor kinase A (TrkA) receptor that is expressed on these cells plays key roles in mediating the survival and differentiation of neural progenitors as well as in the regulation of the growth and regeneration of different neural systems. In this study, the OptoTrkA system is introduced, which is able to stimulate TrkA activity via blue-light illumination in HSCs. This allows to determine whether TrkA signaling is capable of influencing the proliferation, migration, and neural differentiation of these somatic stem cells. It is found that OptoTrkA is able to activate downstream molecules such as ERK and AKT with blue-light illumination, and subsequently able to terminate this kinase activity in the dark. HSCs with OptoTrkA activity show an increased ability for proliferation and migration and also exhibited accelerated neuronal and glial cell differentiation. These findings suggest that the precise control of TrkA activity using optogenetic tools is a viable strategy for the regeneration of neurons from HSCs, and also provides a novel insight into the clinical application of optogenetic tools in cell-transplantation therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taida Huang
- The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, China
| | - Zitian Wang
- Tsinghua-Berkeley Shenzhen Institute, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Yunxin Zeng
- The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China
| | - Nan Wang
- The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China
| | - Huaxun Fan
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
| | - Zhangsen Huang
- The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China
| | - Yixun Su
- The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China
| | - Xiaomin Huang
- The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China
| | - Hui Chen
- School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, PO Box 123, Broadway, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Kai Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
| | - Chenju Yi
- The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, 518107, China
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Sagen J, Whittemore SR. Emerging Strategies in Neural Transplantation and Repair: A Special Issue Based on the Eighth Annual Conference. Cell Transplant 2017; 11:181-183. [PMID: 28858599 DOI: 10.3727/096020198389906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline Sagen
- Miami Project to Cure Paralysis University of Miami School of Medicine The Lois Pope LIFE Center 1095 NW 14th Terrace (R-48) Miami, FL 33101
| | - Scott R Whittemore
- Department of Neurological Surgery University of Louisville SOM 210 E Gray St Ste 1102 Louisville, KY 40202
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Pavlova G, Enblom A, Revishchin A, Sandelin M, Korochkin L, Kozlova EN. The Influence of Donor Age, Nerve Growth Factor, and Cografting with Drosophila Cells on Survival of Peripherally Grafted Embryonic or Fetal Rat Dorsal Root Ganglia. Cell Transplant 2017; 12:705-15. [PMID: 14653618 DOI: 10.3727/000000003108747325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous studies have shown that embryonic rat and human dorsal root ganglion (DRG) cells survive grafting to the cavity of extirpated adult rat DRG. Furthermore, grafted human embryonic neurons were shown to send axons peripherally and into the spinal cord, where they establish functional synaptic connections. This study analyzed the survival of orthotopically allografted rat DRG cells from embryonic stages 15 (E15) and 20 (E20), and the influence on their survival of nerve growth factor (NGF). NGF was delivered to the DRG transplants either by pump infusion or by cotransplantation of cells from Drosophila melanogaster, transgenic for human NGF. Lumbar DRGs of adult rats were removed and a collection of E15 or E20 DRGs placed in the cavity. One month after grafting the total number of DRG cells in the grafts was counted. Differentiation of subpopulations of DRG cells was estimated by counting cells immunostained for calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), Griffonia simplicifolia agglutinin isolectin B4 (GSA), or heavy neurofilament protein (antibody RT97). The results show: i) similar survival of E15 and E20 grafts, with great variability in the survival of different subpopulations in E15 transplants, but a more consistent distribution of different phenotypes in E20 transplants; ii) infusion of NGF for 2 weeks increases the survival of E15 transplants, but has a negative effect on E20 transplants; iii) Drosophila cells transfected with human NGF gene survive peripheral xenografting and have a positive effect on the survival of the GSA- and CGRP-positive populations in E15 and E20 transplants; iv) Drosophila cells without the human NGF gene increase cell survival in E20 transplants. These data suggest that i) the effect of NGF is dependent on the embryonic stage of the transplants, ii) age-dependent sensitivity to NGF influences graft survival, and iii) transgenic Drosophila cells can be cotransplanted with embryonic neural tissue to the mammalian peripheral nervous system with a positive effect on the survival of neural grafts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Galina Pavlova
- Institute of Gene Biology, Laboratory of Neurogenetics, Russian Academy of Sciences
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4
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Domínguez-Bendala J, Ricordi C. Article Commentary: Stem Cell Plasticity and Tissue Replacement. Cell Transplant 2017; 14:423-425. [DOI: 10.3727/000000005783982891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Juan Domínguez-Bendala
- Diabetes Research Institute, University of Miami School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Camillo Ricordi
- Diabetes Research Institute, University of Miami School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
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5
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Sanberg PR, Greene-Zavertnik C, Davis CD. Article Commentary: Cell Transplantation: The Regenerative Medicine Journal. A Biennial Analysis of Publications. Cell Transplant 2017; 12:815-825. [DOI: 10.3727/000000003771000165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Paul R. Sanberg
- Center of Excellence for Aging and Brain Repair, University of South Florida College of Medicine, 12901 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., MDC 78, Tampa, FL 33612
| | - Cathryn Greene-Zavertnik
- Center of Excellence for Aging and Brain Repair, University of South Florida College of Medicine, 12901 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., MDC 78, Tampa, FL 33612
| | - Cyndy D. Davis
- Center of Excellence for Aging and Brain Repair, University of South Florida College of Medicine, 12901 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., MDC 78, Tampa, FL 33612
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Darabi S, Tiraihi T, Delshad A, Sadeghizadeh M, Khalil W, Taheri T. In vitro non-viral murine pro-neurotrophin 3 gene transfer into rat bone marrow stromal cells. J Neurol Sci 2017; 375:137-145. [PMID: 28320116 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2017.01.058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2016] [Revised: 01/16/2017] [Accepted: 01/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Neurotrophin 3 (NT-3) is an important factor for promoting prenatal neural development, as well as regeneration, axogenesis and plasticity in postnatal life. Therapy with NT-3 was reported to improve the condition of patients suffering from degenerative diseases and traumatic injuries, however, the disadvantage of NT-3 protein delivery is its short half-life, thus our alternative approach is the use of NT-3 gene therapy. In this study, the bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) were isolated from adult rats, cultured for 4 passages and transfected with either pEGFP-N1 or a constructed vector containing murine proNT-3 (pSecTag2/HygroB-murine proNT-3) using Lipofectamine 2000 followed by Hygromycin B (200mg/kg). The transfection efficiency of the transiently transfected BMSCs was evaluated using the green fluorescence protein containing vector (pEGFP-N1). A quantitative evaluation of the NT-3 expression of mRNA using real time qRT-PCR shows that there was double fold increase in NT-3 gene expression compared with non-transfected BMSCs, also, the culture supernatant yielded double fold increase in NT-3 using ELISA technique, the data were supported by immunoblotting technique. This suggests that the use of this transfection technique can be useful for gene therapy in different neurological disorders with neurodegenerative or traumatic origins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahram Darabi
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Qazvin University of Medical Science, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Taki Tiraihi
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.
| | | | - Majid Sadeghizadeh
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Wisam Khalil
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Taher Taheri
- Shefa Neurosciences Research Center, Khatam Al-Anbia Hospital, Tehran, Iran
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Lin XY, Lai BQ, Zeng X, Che MT, Ling EA, Wu W, Zeng YS. Cell Transplantation and Neuroengineering Approach for Spinal Cord Injury Treatment: A Summary of Current Laboratory Findings and Review of Literature. Cell Transplant 2016; 25:1425-38. [DOI: 10.3727/096368916x690836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) can cause severe traumatic injury to the central nervous system (CNS). Current therapeutic effects achieved for SCI in clinical medicine show that there is still a long way to go to reach the desired goal of full or significant functional recovery. In basic medical research, however, cell transplantation, gene therapy, application of cytokines, and biomaterial scaffolds have been widely used and investigated as treatments for SCI. All of these strategies when used separately would help rebuild, to some extent, the neural circuits in the lesion area of the spinal cord. In light of this, it is generally accepted that a combined treatment may be a more effective strategy. This review focuses primarily on our recent series of work on transplantation of Schwann cells and adult stem cells, and transplantation of stem cell-derived neural network scaffolds with functional synapses. Arising from this, an artificial neural network (an exogenous neuronal relay) has been designed and fabricated by us—a biomaterial scaffold implanted with Schwann cells modified by the neurotrophin-3 (NT-3) gene and adult stem cells modified with the TrkC (receptor of NT-3) gene. More importantly, experimental evidence suggests that the novel artificial network can integrate with the host tissue and serve as an exogenous neuronal relay for signal transfer and functional improvement of SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin-Yi Lin
- Key Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering (Sun Yat-sen University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Bi-Qin Lai
- Key Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering (Sun Yat-sen University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiang Zeng
- Key Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering (Sun Yat-sen University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Ming-Tian Che
- Key Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering (Sun Yat-sen University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Eng-Ang Ling
- Department of Anatomy, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Wutian Wu
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
- State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
- Jinan University–Hong Kong University Joint Laboratory, GHM Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuan-Shan Zeng
- Key Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering (Sun Yat-sen University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Institute of Spinal Cord Injury, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Disease, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
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8
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Yarbrough WG, Panaccione A, Chang MT, Ivanov SV. Clinical and molecular insights into adenoid cystic carcinoma: Neural crest-like stemness as a target. Laryngoscope Investig Otolaryngol 2016; 1:60-77. [PMID: 28894804 PMCID: PMC5510248 DOI: 10.1002/lio2.22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2016] [Accepted: 05/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This review surveys trialed therapies and molecular defects in adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC), with an emphasis on neural crest-like stemness characteristics of newly discovered cancer stem cells (CSCs) and therapies that may target these CSCs. DATA SOURCES Articles available on Pubmed or OVID MEDLINE databases and unpublished data. REVIEW METHODS Systematic review of articles pertaining to ACC and neural crest-like stem cells. RESULTS Adenoid cystic carcinoma of the salivary gland is a slowly growing but relentless cancer that is prone to nerve invasion and metastases. A lack of understanding of molecular etiology and absence of targetable drivers has limited therapy for patients with ACC to surgery and radiation. Currently, no curative treatments are available for patients with metastatic disease, which highlights the need for effective new therapies. Research in this area has been inhibited by the lack of validated cell lines and a paucity of clinically useful markers. The ACC research environment has recently improved, thanks to the introduction of novel tools, technologies, approaches, and models. Improved understanding of ACC suggests that neural crest-like stemness is a major target in this rare tumor. New cell culture techniques and patient-derived xenografts provide tools for preclinical testing. CONCLUSION Preclinical research has not identified effective targets in ACC, as confirmed by the large number of failed clinical trials. New molecular data suggest that drivers of neural crest-like stemness may be required for maintenance of ACC; as such, CSCs are a target for therapy of ACC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wendell G. Yarbrough
- Section of Otolaryngology, Department of Surgery, Yale School of MedicineNew HavenConnecticutUSA
- Yale Cancer CenterNew HavenConnecticutUSA
| | - Alexander Panaccione
- Department of Cancer BiologyVanderbilt University School of MedicineNashvilleTennesseeU.S.A.
| | - Michael T. Chang
- Section of Otolaryngology, Department of Surgery, Yale School of MedicineNew HavenConnecticutUSA
| | - Sergey V. Ivanov
- Section of Otolaryngology, Department of Surgery, Yale School of MedicineNew HavenConnecticutUSA
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Muheremu A, Peng J, Ao Q. Stem cell based therapies for spinal cord injury. Tissue Cell 2016; 48:328-33. [PMID: 27318871 DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2016.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2016] [Revised: 05/25/2016] [Accepted: 05/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Treatment of spinal cord injury has always been a challenge for clinical practitioners and scientists. The development in stem cell based therapies has brought new hopes to patients with spinal cord injuries. In the last a few decades, a variety of stem cells have been used to treat spinal cord injury in animal experiments and some clinical trials. However, there are many technical and ethical challenges to overcome before this novel therapeutic method can be widely applied in clinical practice. With further research in pluripotent stem cells and combined application of genetic and tissue engineering techniques, stem cell based therapies are bond to play increasingly important role in the management of spinal cord injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aikeremujiang Muheremu
- Department of Spine Surgery, Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, No. 118, Henan West Street, Xinshi District, Urumqi, Xinjiang, China; Institute of Orthopaedics, General Hospital of People's Liberation Army, No. 28 Fuxing Rd, Haidian District, Beijing 100853, China; Department of Tissue Engineering, China Medical University, No.77 Puhe Road, Shenyang North New Area, Shenyang, Liaoning Province 112011, P.R. China
| | - Jiang Peng
- Institute of Orthopaedics, General Hospital of People's Liberation Army, No. 28 Fuxing Rd, Haidian District, Beijing 100853, China
| | - Qiang Ao
- Department of Tissue Engineering, China Medical University, No.77 Puhe Road, Shenyang North New Area, Shenyang, Liaoning Province 112011, P.R. China.
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10
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Ding Y, Yan Q, Ruan JW, Zhang YQ, Li WJ, Zeng X, Huang SF, Zhang YJ, Wu JL, Fisher D, Dong H, Zeng YS. Electroacupuncture Promotes the Differentiation of Transplanted Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells Overexpressing TrkC into Neuron-Like Cells in Transected Spinal Cord of Rats. Cell Transplant 2013; 22:65-86. [DOI: 10.3727/096368912x655037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Our previous study indicated that electroacupuncture (EA) could increase neurotrophin-3 (NT-3) levels in the injured spinal cord, stimulate the differentiation of transplanted bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), and improve functional recovery in the injured spinal cord of rats. However, the number of neuron-like cells derived from the MSCs is limited. It is known that NT-3 promotes the survival and differentiation of neurons by preferentially binding to its receptor TrkC. In this study, we attempted to transplant TrkC gene-modified MSCs (TrkC-MSCs) into the spinal cord with transection to investigate whether EA treatment could promote NT-3 secretion in the injured spinal cord and to determine whether increased NT-3 could further enhance transplanted MSCs overexpressing TrkC to differentiate into neuron-like cells, resulting in increased axonal regeneration and functional improvement in the injured spinal cord. Our results showed that EA increased NT-3 levels; furthermore, it promoted neuron-phenotype differentiation, synaptogenesis, and myelin formation of transplanted TrkC-MSCs. In addition, TrkC-MSC transplantation combined with EA (the TrkC-MSCs + EA group) treatment promoted the growth of the descending BDA-labeled corticospinal tracts (CSTs) and 5-HT-positive axonal regeneration across the lesion site into the caudal cord. In addition, the conduction of cortical motor-evoked potentials (MEPs) and hindlimb locomotor function increased as compared to controls (treated with the LacZ-MSCs, TrkC-MSCs, and LacZ-MSCs + EA groups). In the TrkC-MSCs + EA group, the injured spinal cord also showed upregulated expression of the proneurogenic factors laminin and GAP-43 and downregulated GFAP and chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans (CSPGs), major inhibitors of axonal growth. Together, our data suggest that TrkC-MSC transplantation combined with EA treatment spinal cord injury not only increased MSC survival and differentiation into neuron-like cells but also promoted CST regeneration across injured sites to the caudal cord and functional improvement, perhaps due to increase of NT-3 levels, upregulation of laminin and GAP-43, and downregulation of GFAP and CSPG proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Ding
- Division of Neuroscience, Department of Histology and Embryology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qing Yan
- Division of Neuroscience, Department of Histology and Embryology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jing-Wen Ruan
- Department of Acupuncture of the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yan-Qing Zhang
- Division of Neuroscience, Department of Histology and Embryology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wen-Jie Li
- Division of Neuroscience, Department of Histology and Embryology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiang Zeng
- Key Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering (Sun Yat-sen University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, China
| | - Si-Fan Huang
- Division of Neuroscience, Department of Histology and Embryology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yu-Jiao Zhang
- Division of Neuroscience, Department of Histology and Embryology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jin-Lang Wu
- Department of Electron Microscope, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Danny Fisher
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Hongxin Dong
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Yuan-Shan Zeng
- Division of Neuroscience, Department of Histology and Embryology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering (Sun Yat-sen University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, China
- Institute of Spinal Cord Injury, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
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11
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Neurotrophin-induced migration and neuronal differentiation of multipotent astrocytic stem cells in vitro. PLoS One 2012; 7:e51706. [PMID: 23251608 PMCID: PMC3520915 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0051706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2012] [Accepted: 11/05/2012] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) affects 2-3 per 1000 full-term neonates. Up to 75% of newborns with severe HIE die or have severe neurological handicaps. Stem cell therapy offers the potential to replace HIE-damaged cells and enhances the autoregeneration process. Our laboratory implanted Multipotent Astrocytic Stem Cells (MASCs) into a neonatal rat model of hypoxia-ischemia (HI) and demonstrated that MASCs move to areas of injury in the cortex and hippocampus. However, only a small proportion of the implanted MASCs differentiated into neurons. MASCs injected into control pups did not move into the cortex or differentiate into neurons. We do not know the mechanism by which the MASCs moved from the site of injection to the injured cortex. We found neurotrophins present after the hypoxic-ischemic milieu and hypothesized that neurotrophins could enhance the migration and differentiation of MASCs. Using a Boyden chamber device, we demonstrated that neurotrophins potentiate the in vitro migration of stem cells. NGF, GDNF, BDNF and NT-3 increased stem cell migration when compared to a chemokinesis control. Also, MASCs had increased differentiation toward neuronal phenotypes when these neurotrophins were added to MASC culture tissue. Due to this finding, we believed neurotrophins could guide migration and differentiation of stem cell transplants after brain injury.
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Niapour A, Karamali F, Nemati S, Taghipour Z, Mardani M, Nasr-Esfahani MH, Baharvand H. Cotransplantation of Human Embryonic Stem Cell-Derived Neural Progenitors and Schwann Cells in a Rat Spinal Cord Contusion Injury Model Elicits a Distinct Neurogenesis and Functional Recovery. Cell Transplant 2012; 21:827-43. [DOI: 10.3727/096368911x593163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Cotransplantation of neural progenitors (NPs) with Schwann cells (SCs) might be a way to overcome low rate of neuronal differentiation of NPs following transplantation in spinal cord injury (SCI) and the improvement of locomotor recovery. In this study, we initially generated NPs from human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) and investigated their potential for neuronal differentiation and functional recovery when cocultured with SCs in vitro and cotransplanted in a rat acute model of contused SCI. Cocultivation results revealed that the presence of SCs provided a consistent status for hESC-NPs and recharged their neural differentiation toward a predominantly neuronal fate. Following transplantation, a significant functional recovery was observed in all engrafted groups (NPs, SCs, NPs + SCs) relative to the vehicle and control groups. We also observed that animals receiving cotransplants established a better state as assessed with the BBB functional test. Immunohistofluorescence evaluation 5 weeks after transplantation showed invigorated neuronal differentiation and limited proliferation in the cotransplanted group when compared to the individual hESC-NP-grafted group. These findings have demonstrated that the cotransplantation of SCs with hESC-NPs could offer a synergistic effect, promoting neuronal differentiation and functional recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Niapour
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Animal Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Science, Isfahan, Iran
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Ardebil University of Medical Science, Ardebil, Iran
| | - Fereshteh Karamali
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Animal Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Shiva Nemati
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Taghipour
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Animal Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Science, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Mardani
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Science, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hossein Nasr-Esfahani
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Animal Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Hossein Baharvand
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Developmental Biology, University of Science and Culture, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
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13
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Cograft of neural stem cells and schwann cells overexpressing TrkC and neurotrophin-3 respectively after rat spinal cord transection. Biomaterials 2011; 32:7454-68. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2011.06.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2011] [Accepted: 06/14/2011] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
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14
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Hwang DH, Kim HM, Kang YM, Joo IS, Cho CS, Yoon BW, Kim SU, Kim BG. Combination of Multifaceted Strategies to Maximize the Therapeutic Benefits of Neural Stem Cell Transplantation for Spinal Cord Repair. Cell Transplant 2011; 20:1361-79. [DOI: 10.3727/096368910x557155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Neural stem cells (NSCs) possess therapeutic potentials to reverse complex pathological processes following spinal cord injury (SCI), but many obstacles remain that could not be fully overcome by NSC transplantation alone. Combining complementary strategies might be required to advance NSC-based treatments to the clinical stage. The present study was undertaken to examine whether combination of NSCs, polymer scaffolds, neurotrophin-3 (NT3), and chondroitinase, which cleaves chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans at the interface between spinal cord and implanted scaffold, could provide additive therapeutic benefits. In a rat hemisection model, poly(e-caprolactone) (PCL) was used as a bridging scaffold and as a vehicle for NSC delivery. The PCL scaffolds seeded with F3 NSCs or NT3 overexpressing F3 cells (F3.NT3) were implanted into hemisected cavities. F3.NT3 showed better survival and migration, and more frequently differentiated into neurons and oligodendrocytes than F3 cells. Animals with PCL scaffold containing F3.NT3 cells showed the best locomotor recovery, and motor evoked potentials (MEPs) following transcranial magnetic stimulation were recorded only in PCL-F3.NT3 group in contralateral, but not ipsilateral, hindlimbs. Implantation of PCL scaffold with F3.NT3 cells increased NT3 levels, promoted neuroplasticity, and enhanced remyelination of contralateral white matter. Combining chondroitinase treatment after PCL-F3.NT3 implantation further enhanced cell migration and promoted axonal remodeling, and this was accompanied by augmented locomotor recovery and restoration of MEPs in ipsilateral hindlimbs. We demonstrate that combining multifaceted strategies can maximize the therapeutic benefits of NSC transplantation for SCI. Our results may have important clinical implications for the design of future NSC-based strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong H. Hwang
- Brain Disease Research Center, Institute of Medical Sciences, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyuk M. Kim
- Brain Disease Research Center, Institute of Medical Sciences, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Young M. Kang
- Brain Disease Research Center, Institute of Medical Sciences, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Republic of Korea
| | - In S. Joo
- Department of Neurology, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Chong-Su Cho
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Byung-Woo Yoon
- Departments of Neurology and Neuroscience Research Center, Clinical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung U. Kim
- Department of Neurology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Medical Research Institute, Chungang University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Byung G. Kim
- Brain Disease Research Center, Institute of Medical Sciences, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Republic of Korea
- Department of Neurology, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Republic of Korea
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15
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Zhang YQ, He LM, Xing B, Zeng X, Zeng CG, Zhang W, Quan DP, Zeng YS. Neurotrophin-3 Gene-Modified Schwann Cells Promote TrkC Gene-Modified Mesenchymal Stem Cells to Differentiate into Neuron-Like Cells in Poly(Lactic-Acid-Co-Glycolic Acid) Multiple-Channel Conduit. Cells Tissues Organs 2011; 195:313-22. [DOI: 10.1159/000327724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/23/2011] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
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16
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Thakor DK, Teng YD, Obata H, Nagane K, Saito S, Tabata Y. Nontoxic genetic engineering of mesenchymal stem cells using serum-compatible pullulan-spermine/DNA anioplexes. Tissue Eng Part C Methods 2010; 17:131-44. [PMID: 20698746 DOI: 10.1089/ten.tec.2010.0120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Genetic modification of stem cells could be applied to initiate/enhance their secretion of therapeutic molecules, alter their biological properties, or label them for in vivo tracking. We recently developed a negatively charged gene carrier ("anioplex") based on pullulan-spermine, a conjugate prepared from a natural polysaccharide and polyamine. In rat mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), anioplex-derived reporter gene activity was comparable to or exceeded that obtained using a commercial cationic lipid reagent. Transfection in the growth medium with 15% serum and antibiotics was approximately sevenfold more effective than in serum-free conditions. Cytotoxicity was essentially indiscernible after 24 h of anioplex transfection with 20 μg/mL DNA, in contrast to cationic lipid transfection that resulted in 40%-60% death of target MSCs. Anioplex-derived reporter gene activity persisted throughout the entire 3-week study, with post-transfection MSCs appearing to maintain osteogenic, adipogenic, and chondrogenic multipotency. In particular, chondrogenic pellet formation of differentiating human MSCs was significantly inhibited after lipofection but not after aniofection, which further indicates the biological inertness of pullulan-spermine/DNA anioplexes. Collectively, these data introduce a straightforward technology for genetic engineering of adult stem/progenitor cells under physiological niche-like conditions. Moreover, reporter gene activity was observed in rat spinal cords after minimally invasive intrathecal implantation, suggesting effective engraftment of donor MSCs. It is therefore plausible that anioplex-transfected MSCs or other stem/progenitor cells with autologous potential could be applied to disorders such as neurotrauma or neuropathic pain that involve the spinal cord and brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devang K Thakor
- Institute for Frontier Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
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17
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Furmanski O, Gajavelli S, Lee JW, Collado ME, Jergova S, Sagen J. Combined extrinsic and intrinsic manipulations exert complementary neuronal enrichment in embryonic rat neural precursor cultures: an in vitro and in vivo analysis. J Comp Neurol 2009; 515:56-71. [PMID: 19399893 DOI: 10.1002/cne.22027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Numerous central nervous system (CNS) disorders share a common pathology in dysregulation of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) inhibitory signaling. Transplantation of GABA-releasing cells at the site of disinhibition holds promise for alleviating disease symptoms with fewer side effects than traditional drug therapies. We manipulated fibroblast growth factor (FGF)-2 deprivation and mammalian achaete-scute homolog (MASH)1 transcription factor levels in an attempt to amplify the default GABAergic neuronal fate in cultured rat embryonic neural precursor cells (NPCs) for use in transplantation studies. Naïve and MASH1 lentivirus-transduced NPCs were maintained in FGF-2 or deprived of FGF-2 for varying lengths of time. Immunostaining and quantitative analysis showed that GABA- and beta-III-tubulin-immunoreactive cells generally decreased through successive passages, suggesting a loss of neurogenic potential in rat neurospheres expanded in vitro. However, FGF-2 deprivation resulted in a small, but significantly increased population of GABAergic cells derived from passaged neurospheres. In contrast to naïve and GFP lentivirus-transduced clones, MASH1 transduction resulted in increased bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) incorporation and clonal colony size. Western blotting showed that MASH1 overexpression and FGF-2 deprivation additively increased beta-III-tubulin and decreased cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase (CNPase) expression, whereas FGF-2 deprivation alone attenuated glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) expression. These results suggest that low FGF-2 signaling and MASH1 activity can operate in concert to enrich NPC cultures for a GABA neuronal phenotype. When transplanted into the adult rat spinal cord, this combination also yielded GABAergic neurons. These findings indicate that, even for successful utilization of the default GABAergic neuronal precursor fate, a combination of both extrinsic and intrinsic manipulations will likely be necessary to realize the full potential of NSC grafts in restoring function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Orion Furmanski
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida 33136, USA
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18
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Ma J, Tian WM, Hou SP, Xu QY, Spector M, Cui FZ. An experimental test of stroke recovery by implanting a hyaluronic acid hydrogel carrying a Nogo receptor antibody in a rat model. Biomed Mater 2007; 2:233-40. [DOI: 10.1088/1748-6041/2/4/005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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19
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Wang JM, Zeng YS, Liu RY, Huang WL, Xiong Y, Wang YH, Chen SJ, Teng YD. Recombinant adenovirus vector-mediated functional expression of neurotropin-3 receptor (TrkC) in neural stem cells. Exp Neurol 2007; 203:123-7. [PMID: 17007838 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2006.07.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2006] [Revised: 07/03/2006] [Accepted: 07/27/2006] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
We have constructed a recombinant adenovirus expression vector carrying the human neurotrophin-3 (NT-3) receptor TrkC (tyrosine protein kinase C) gene (rAd-TrkC; 2478 bp) and confirmed the expression of the encoded TrkC in green fluorescent protein (GFP)-murine neural stem cells (NSCs) by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), Western blot analysis, and immunocytochemistry. The activity of the expressed rAd-TrkC was verified in vitro by evaluating dose-related responses of NSCs to NT-3, a TrkC specific ligand. TrkC-GFP-NSCs had a significantly higher percentage of neuronal differentiation when treated with NT-3 relative to the rAd-LacZ control cells (55.2% vs. 29.8%; P<0.05, chi(2) test). Thus, our rAd-TrkC vector can transfect NSCs and produce functional TrkC receptors to promote neuronal differentiation of NSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun-Mei Wang
- Division of Neuroscience, Department of Histology and Embryology, Zhongshan Medical College, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
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20
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Hou S, Tian W, Xu Q, Cui F, Zhang J, Lu Q, Zhao C. The enhancement of cell adherence and inducement of neurite outgrowth of dorsal root ganglia co-cultured with hyaluronic acid hydrogels modified with Nogo-66 receptor antagonist in vitro. Neuroscience 2006; 137:519-29. [PMID: 16298084 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2005.09.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2005] [Revised: 09/11/2005] [Accepted: 09/17/2005] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Hyaluronic acid hydrogels modified with polyclonal anti-Nogo-66 receptor antibody were developed in order to promote regeneration in the injured CNS. These modified hydrogels were intended not only to deliver antibodies, but also to serve as a scaffold for neural regeneration following their implantation into injured tissue. Since unmodified hyaluronic acid-hydrogels do not support cell attachment, the gels were modified with polyclonal anti-Nogo-66 receptor with the aim of altering the surface properties of the gels in such a way as to improve neuronal adherence and survival. After evaluating the immobilization efficiency of the system, chicken dorsal root ganglia and dorsal root ganglia cells were planted on the surface of the modified gels to determine cell viability. Dorsal root ganglia were also cultured close to the gels in order to assay the inducement of neurite outgrowth. In dorsal root ganglia and cell viability assay, dorsal root ganglia and neuron cells could adhere to the modified hydrogels and survive well, but it did not happen to unmodified hydrogels. After 72 h, these attached cells were stained positively with immuno-staining for neurofilament. Neurite outgrowth inducement assay showed that the number and length of dorsal root ganglia neurites on the side toward modified hydrogels were significantly more than that on the opposite side (both P<0.01). The results reveal that hyaluronic acid-hydrogels modified with anti-Nogo-66 receptor can support neural cell attachment and survival in vitro. Furthermore, this system can greatly induce neurite outgrowth. The results also indicate that this modified hydrogels have potential to repair injury in the CNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Hou
- Beijing Institute for Neuroscience, Capital University of Medical Sciences, You An Men 10, Beijing 100054, PR China
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21
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Lepore AC, Fischer I. Lineage-restricted neural precursors survive, migrate, and differentiate following transplantation into the injured adult spinal cord. Exp Neurol 2005; 194:230-42. [PMID: 15899260 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2005.02.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 135] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2005] [Revised: 01/04/2005] [Accepted: 02/15/2005] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Fetal spinal cord from embryonic day 14 (E14/FSC) has been used for numerous transplantation studies of injured spinal cord. E14/FSC consists primarily of neuronal (NRP)- and glial (GRP)-restricted precursors. Therefore, we reasoned that comparing the fate of E14/FSC with defined populations of lineage-restricted precursors will test the in vivo properties of these precursors in CNS and allow us to define the sequence of events following their grafting into the injured spinal cord. Using tissue derived from transgenic rats expressing the alkaline phosphatase (AP) marker, we found that E14/FSC exhibited early cell loss at 4 days following acute transplantation into a partial hemisection injury, but the surviving cells expanded to fill the entire injury cavity by 3 weeks. E14/FSC grafts integrated into host tissue, differentiated into neurons, astrocytes, and oligodendrocytes, and demonstrated variability in process extension and migration out of the transplant site. Under similar grafting conditions, defined NRP/GRP cells showed excellent survival, consistent migration out of the injury site and robust differentiation into mature CNS phenotypes, including many neurons. Few immature cells remained at 3 weeks in either grafts. These results suggest that by combining neuronal and glial restricted precursors, it is possible to generate a microenvironmental niche where emerging glial cells, derived from GRPs, support survival and neuronal differentiation of NRPs within the non-neurogenic and non-permissive injured adult spinal cord, even when grafted into acute injury. Furthermore, the NRP/GRP grafts have practical advantages over fetal transplants, making them attractive candidates for neural cell replacement.
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Affiliation(s)
- A C Lepore
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, 2900 Queen Lane, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19129, USA
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22
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Ramer LM, Ramer MS, Steeves JD. Setting the stage for functional repair of spinal cord injuries: a cast of thousands. Spinal Cord 2005; 43:134-61. [PMID: 15672094 DOI: 10.1038/sj.sc.3101715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Here we review mechanisms and molecules that necessitate protection and oppose axonal growth in the injured spinal cord, representing not only a cast of villains but also a company of therapeutic targets, many of which have yet to be fully exploited. We next discuss recent progress in the fields of bridging, overcoming conduction block and rehabilitation after spinal cord injury (SCI), where several treatments in each category have entered the spotlight, and some are being tested clinically. Finally, studies that combine treatments targeting different aspects of SCI are reviewed. Although experiments applying some treatments in combination have been completed, auditions for each part in the much-sought combination therapy are ongoing, and performers must demonstrate robust anatomical regeneration and/or significant return of function in animal models before being considered for a lead role.
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Affiliation(s)
- L M Ramer
- ICORD (International Collaboration on Repair Discoveries), The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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23
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Tzeng SF, Huang HY. Downregulation of inducible nitric oxide synthetase by neurotrophin-3 in microglia. J Cell Biochem 2004; 90:227-33. [PMID: 14505339 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.10658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Microglia activated after many neurological degeneration of the central nervous system (CNS) act as important regulators for neuropathogenesis in the injured CNS via producing proinflammatory mediators, such as nitric oxide (NO), TNF-alpha, and IL-1beta. Neurotrophin-3 (NT-3) is a well-known trophic factor for neural survival, development, and plasticity. Activated microglia are NT-3-producing cells in the injured CNS, and express its receptor-TrkC. However, little is known about the effect of NT-3 on activated microglia. In this study, pre-treatment of a mouse microglial cell line, BV2, with NT-3 for 24 h indicated that NT-3 reduced the inducible form of NO synthase (iNOS), NO, and TNF-alpha in BV2 stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). NT-3 exerted less effect on the reduction of these proinflammatory mediators when it was added to BV2 cultures either simultaneously with LPS or post LPS treatment. These findings indicate that NT-3 may serve as an anti-inflammatory factor to suppress microglial activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shun-Fen Tzeng
- Department of Biology, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan City, Taiwan.
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24
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Hendriks WT, Ruitenberg MJ, Blits B, Boer GJ, Verhaagen J. Viral vector-mediated gene transfer of neurotrophins to promote regeneration of the injured spinal cord. PROGRESS IN BRAIN RESEARCH 2004; 146:451-76. [PMID: 14699980 DOI: 10.1016/s0079-6123(03)46029-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Injuries to the adult mammalian spinal cord often lead to severe damage to both ascending (sensory) pathways and descending (motor) nerve pathways without the perspective of complete functional recovery. Future spinal cord repair strategies should comprise a multi-factorial approach addressing several issues, including optimalization of survival and function of spared central nervous system neurons in partial lesions and the modulation of trophic and inhibitory influences to promote and guide axonal regrowth. Neurotrophins have emerged as promising molecules to augment neuroprotection and neuronal regeneration. Although intracerebroventricular, intrathecal and local protein delivery of neurotrophins to the injured spinal cord has resulted in enhanced survival and regeneration of injured neurons, there are a number of drawbacks to these methods. Viral vector-mediated transfer of neurotrophin genes to the injured spinal cord is emerging as a novel and effective strategy to express neurotrophins in the injured nervous system. Ex vivo transfer of neurotrophic factor genes is explored as a way to bridge lesions cavities for axonal regeneration. Several viral vector systems, based on herpes simplex virus, adenovirus, adeno-associated virus, lentivirus, and moloney leukaemia virus, have been employed. The genetic modification of fibroblasts, Schwann cells, olfactory ensheathing glia cells, and stem cells, prior to implantation to the injured spinal cord has resulted in improved cellular nerve guides. So far, neurotrophic factor gene transfer to the injured spinal cord has led to results comparable to those obtained with direct protein delivery, but has a number of advantages. The steady advances that have been made in combining new viral vector systems with a range of promising cellular platforms for ex vivo gene transfer (e.g., primary embryonic neurons, Schwann cells, olfactory ensheating glia cells and neural stem cells) holds promising perspectives for the development of new neurotrophic factor-based therapies to repair the injured nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- William T Hendriks
- Graduate School for Neurosciences Amsterdam, Department of Neuroregeneration, Netherlands Institute for Brain Research, Meibergdreef 33, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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