Mst3b, an Ste20-like kinase, regulates axon regeneration in mature CNS and PNS pathways

This study investigates the role of Mst3b, a protein kinase, in axon regeneration in mature neurons of the central (CNS) and peripheral (PNS) nervous systems. The researchers found that Mst3b is essential for the ability of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons to regenerate axons in response to growth factors. They also showed that Mst3b regulates axon regeneration through changes in its kinase activity, suggesting it could be a potential therapeutic target for nerve injuries.

• 1
  Mst3b mediates the axon-promoting effects of trophic factors in mature rat retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons.
• 2
  Reducing Mst3b levels prevented RGCs and DRG neurons from regenerating axons in response to growth factors in culture.
• 3
  In vivo, RGCs lacking Mst3b failed to regenerate injured axons when stimulated by intraocular inflammation, demonstrating Mst3b's essential role in axon regeneration within the CNS.