Astrocyte heterogeneity across the brain and spinal cord occurs developmentally, in adulthood and in response to demyelination

PLoS ONE, 2017 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0180697 · Published: July 10, 2017

Simple Explanation

Astrocytes, key regulators in the brain and spinal cord, exhibit regional differences. The study compares the expression of astroglial markers, GFAP and ALDH1L1, across the brain and spinal cord during development and demyelination. The study found that GFAP expression is higher in the developing and adult spinal cord relative to the brain. These increases were paralleled by higher levels of IL-6 and STAT3. After focal demyelinating injury, higher levels of GFAP were observed in the spinal cord compared to the brain. These findings suggest that astrocyte abundance and the expression of GFAP and IL-6 differ across the brain and spinal cord.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

C57BL6/J mice

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
GFAP expression is higher in the developing and adult spinal cord compared to the brain.
2
Spinal cord astrocytes express higher levels of IL-6 and STAT3 compared to brain astrocytes.
3
After a demyelinating injury, GFAP expression is greater in the spinal cord compared to the brain.

Research Summary

This study investigates regional differences in astrocyte expression of GFAP and ALDH1L1 across the brain and spinal cord during development and in response to demyelination. The results demonstrate that GFAP expression is higher in the developing and adult spinal cord compared to the brain. This difference is accompanied by elevated levels of IL-6 and STAT3 in the spinal cord. Following demyelinating injury, spinal cord astrocytes exhibit higher levels of GFAP compared to brain astrocytes. These findings highlight regional heterogeneity in astrocytes and its potential impact on responses to injury and disease.

Practical Implications

Targeted Therapies

Regional astrocyte heterogeneity should be considered when designing targeted therapies for neurological disorders.

In Vitro Models

When modeling regional responses in vitro, it is crucial to utilize astrocytes from either the brain or spinal cord based on the relevant region.

Understanding CNS Development

The earlier appearance of astrocytes in the spinal cord compared to the brain provides insights into CNS development and regional specialization.

Study Limitations

1
The study focuses on specific astrocyte markers (GFAP and ALDH1L1) and signaling molecules (IL-6 and STAT3); other factors may contribute to astrocyte heterogeneity.
2
The study is performed in mice; inter-species differences in astrocyte form and function may exist.
3
The study examines a focal demyelinating injury model; responses to other types of injuries may differ.

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