STUDIES OF THE DEGENERATION AND REGENERATION OF AXIS CYLINDERS IN VITRO

The Journal of Experimental Medicine, 1913 · DOI: · Published: January 1, 1913

Neurology Genetics Research Methodology & Design

Simple Explanation

The study investigates the growth of nerve fibers, specifically axis cylinders, outside of a living organism (in vitro). The author cultivated tissues from chick embryos and young mammals to observe how these nerve fibers develop, degenerate, and regenerate. The author found that axis cylinders could be grown from the brains of chick embryos, young cats, rabbits, and dogs. These fibers exhibit growth, branching, and formation of swellings, which are key characteristics of nerve tissue. Furthermore, the study explored what happens when these nerve fibers are cut. The author observed that after being severed, the fibers undergo degenerative changes but also exhibit the ability to regenerate, with new axis cylinders sprouting from the cut ends.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Chick embryos, young rabbits, cats, and dogs

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Axis cylinders can be successfully cultivated in vitro from the brains of chick embryos, young cats, rabbits, and dogs.
2
Severed axis cylinders undergo degenerative changes starting about 20 hours after being cut, and the degeneration process continues for approximately two days.
3
New axis cylinders can regenerate from the central part of severed fibers within 20 hours of the initial cut.

Research Summary

This study demonstrates the successful in vitro cultivation of axis cylinders from the brains of chick embryos and young mammals, including cats, rabbits, and dogs. The cultivated nerve fibers exhibit characteristic growth patterns, branching, and the formation of swellings. The research also investigates the degeneration and regeneration processes of these nerve fibers after being severed. Degenerative changes are observed within 20 hours of the cut, followed by the regeneration of new axis cylinders from the central part of the severed fibers. The study provides detailed observations of the morphological changes during both degeneration and regeneration, contributing valuable insights into the behavior of nerve fibers in a controlled environment.

Practical Implications

Understanding Nerve Fiber Growth

The study provides a foundation for understanding the basic mechanisms of nerve fiber growth and development.

Studying Degeneration and Regeneration

The in vitro model allows for controlled studies of nerve fiber degeneration and regeneration, which can inform strategies for nerve repair.

Developing Therapies

The insights gained from this research may contribute to the development of therapies for nerve injuries and neurodegenerative diseases.

Study Limitations

1
The study relies on in vitro observations, which may not fully replicate the complex in vivo environment.
2
The long-term viability of the cultivated nerve fibers is limited, with degeneration occurring after seven days.
3
The study primarily focuses on morphological changes and does not delve deeply into the molecular mechanisms underlying degeneration and regeneration.

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