Schwann cell transplantation and myelin repair of the CNS

Studies with experimental models of dysmyelination and demyelination have shown that rodent Schwann cells including a Schwann cell line, transplanted in the central nervous system compete with host oligodendrocytes to remyelinate denuded central axons of the spinel cord. The myelin Produced by transplanted SC around these central nervous system axons is structurally normal end restores, secure nerve conduction. In the presence of a favorable substrate, transplanted Schwann cells migrate over considerable distances (several mm) and ore recruited by a demyelinated lesion which they will partially repair. Thus Schwann cells, which con also support oxonol growth, may be instrumental in central nervous system repair In addition, the possibility of obtaining large quantities of human end non-human primate Schwann cells, makes it possible to consider autologous Schwann cell transplantation as a potential therapy for demyelinating or traumatic diseases. The various differences which may exist between rodents and humans, however, require further investigation of this possibility in a non-human primate model of demyelination. These experiments should Provide not only insights on the potential of autologous transplantation in primates but also a better understanding of the process of central remyelination.