Abstract
It is all known that dedifferentiated Schwann cells (SCs) play an important role in neural regeneration, and Notch signaling has complex and extensive regulatory functions in dedifferentiated SCs. So studies have focused on how to improve peripheral nerve repair by regulating proliferation and dedifferentiation in SCs with Notch signaling meloculars.We have found SCs can be activated when adding Recombinant rat jagged1/FC chimera (an activator of the Notch signaling system) in vivo. Compared with that of the control groups, at 4 weeks post-surgery nerve regeneration and functional rehabilitation in the Recombinant rat jagged1/FC chimera group were advanced significantly, and the expression of neurotrophic factors in the regenerated nerves was elevated largely. These results indicated that SCs activated by Notch signaling could promote nerve repair effectively in the early regenerative stage, suggesting the possible clinical application for the treatment of peripheral nerve defects.
Declaration of interest
The authors report no declarations of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.
This work was supported by grants from the National Natural Science Fund (No.30801169), China National Nature and Science Youth(No. 0625036)), and the Development Program of China (973 Program,2005CB522604). All authors have declared that no competing interest exists.