Schwann cells are the myelinating glial cells of the peripheral nervous system(PNS).By establishing lipid-rich myelin sheaths around large-caliber axons,they ensure that electrical signal transmission is accelerated...Schwann cells are the myelinating glial cells of the peripheral nervous system(PNS).By establishing lipid-rich myelin sheaths around large-caliber axons,they ensure that electrical signal transmission is accelerated-a process referred to as saltatory signal propagation.Apart from this prominent physiological function,these cells also exert important pathophysiological roles in PNS injuries or dis- eases. In contrast to the central nervous system (CNS), the adult PNS retains a remarkably high degree of intrinsic re- generation. As a consequence, transected axons and dam- aged myelin sheaths can be repaired and nerve functional- ity can be restored. This spontaneous regenerative capacity depends on (inter) actions of macrophages, neurons, and Schwann cells.展开更多
基金supported by grants from the DFG(German Research Council)Novartis Pharma Gmb H(Nürnberg+2 种基金Germany)Baxter Innovations Gmb H(ViennaGermany)
文摘Schwann cells are the myelinating glial cells of the peripheral nervous system(PNS).By establishing lipid-rich myelin sheaths around large-caliber axons,they ensure that electrical signal transmission is accelerated-a process referred to as saltatory signal propagation.Apart from this prominent physiological function,these cells also exert important pathophysiological roles in PNS injuries or dis- eases. In contrast to the central nervous system (CNS), the adult PNS retains a remarkably high degree of intrinsic re- generation. As a consequence, transected axons and dam- aged myelin sheaths can be repaired and nerve functional- ity can be restored. This spontaneous regenerative capacity depends on (inter) actions of macrophages, neurons, and Schwann cells.