Transcriptome Analysis Reveals Neuroprotective aspects of Human Reactive Astrocytes induced by Interleukin 1β

Scientific Reports, 2017 · DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-13174-w · Published: January 1, 2017

Simple Explanation

This study investigates the neuroprotective potential of human reactive astrocytes induced by IL1β in vitro. Reactive astrocytes were induced with IL1β, and transcriptome analysis revealed upregulation of chemokines and axonal permissive factors. The study suggests that human spinal cord reactive astrocytes are potentially neuroprotective at the early onset of reactive astrogliosis.

Study Duration

24 hours

Participants

Human spinal cord astrocytes

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
IL1β induction in astrocytes resulted in reactive characteristics within 24 hours.
2
Transcriptome analysis showed upregulation of chemokines and axonal permissive factors such as FGF2, BDNF, and NGF.
3
Genes regulating axonal inhibitory molecules, including ROBO1 and ROBO2, were downregulated.

Research Summary

This study reports the genome wide transcriptome profile of IL1β induced human spinal cord reactive astrocytes. Comprehensive subnetwork analysis reveals genes, molecular functions, and signaling pathways regulating reactive astrogliosis. Reactive astrocytes secrete axon-growth-permissive molecules, improving the microenvironment and facilitating neuronal repair and regeneration.

Practical Implications

Therapeutic Strategies

Elucidating the properties of reactive astrocytes at an early onset of reactive astrogliosis enables physicians and scientists to design novel therapeutic strategies exploiting the potential of reactive astrocyte mediated endogenous recovery.

Axonal Guidance Signaling

Augmenting subnetworks of axonal attraction or inhibiting signaling cascades in the 'Axonal Repulsion' subnetwork could be potential interventions.

Understanding Heterogeneity

Recognizing that reactive astrocytes are a heterogeneous cell population whose molecular identity is based on the type of injury and origin of host cells is crucial for targeted therapies.

Study Limitations

1
The study is based on in vitro analysis.
2
The study uses fetal human spinal cord astrocytes, and results may differ in adult astrocytes.
3
The analysis indicates activation of both neuroprotective and inhibitory genes, suggesting a complex balance that requires further investigation.

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