Neurospheres from rat adipose-derived stem cells could be induced into functional Schwann cell-like cells in vitro
2008

Inducing Schwann Cell-like Cells from Rat Adipose-Derived Stem Cells

publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Xu Yongfeng, Liu Zhengshan, Liu Lan, Zhao Cuiping, Xiong Fu, Zhou Chang, Li Yong, Shan Yanchang, Peng Funing, Zhang Cheng

Primary Institution: Sun Yat-sen University

Hypothesis

Can rat adipose-derived stem cells be induced to differentiate into Schwann cell-like cells?

Conclusion

Rat adipose-derived stem cells can differentiate into Schwann cell-like cells, which may be useful for treating neurological diseases.

Supporting Evidence

  • ADSC were successfully converted into floating neurospheres.
  • Neurospheres differentiated into Schwann cell-like cells that expressed specific markers.
  • SC-like cells induced the differentiation of neuroblastoma cells.
  • SC-like cells formed myelin structures with neuronal neurites.

Takeaway

Scientists found a way to turn fat cells from rats into cells that act like nerve-supporting cells, which could help treat nerve injuries.

Methodology

Rat adipose-derived stem cells were cultured and induced to form neurospheres, which were then differentiated into Schwann cell-like cells using specific growth factors.

Potential Biases

Potential bias in the selection of cell lines and methods used for differentiation.

Limitations

The study primarily used rat cells, which may not fully represent human biology.

Participant Demographics

Male Sprague-Dawley rats aged 4 to 8 weeks were used for the study.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.05

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1471-2202-9-21

Want to read the original?

Access the complete publication on the publisher's website

View Original Publication