Abstract

Myelination and node of Ranvier formation play an important role in saltatory conduction of axonal action potentials in the peripheral nervous system (PNS). Degeneration or damage of this myelin can lead to impairment in the conduction of signals by the axons, and cause deficits in sensory and motor function. Currently, animal-based models are the primary method used to study myelination; however, data generated in animal models generally translate poorly to humans, especially as applied to drug discovery. In order to accurately study myelination in humans without having to rely on human testing, an engineered in vitro model of myelination could go a long way in helping us understand the mechanisms of myelination, as well as provide a platform to test drugs or therapeutics to treat diseases that affect myelination. Here we report the complete development and characterization of the first human myelination model using human primary Schwann cells (SCs) and human iPSC-derived motoneurons (iPSC-MNs) as well as some data collected from furthering this work utilizing iPSC derived Schwann cells. Myelination and node of Ranvier formation in co-cultured iPSC human motoneurons and primary human SCs were characterized via flow cytometry, immunocytochemistry, and 3D confocal Raman microscopy, and furthering of this work using iPSC derived human Schwann cells characterized using immunocytochemistry is also presented. This novel human-based myelination model will be a more accurate tool when it comes to the study of myelination and demyelinating diseases in humans, as well as elucidation of mechanisms of myelination. This system(s) could be used to determine efficacy of novel therapeutics for demyelinating diseases such as Charcot-Marie Tooth, Guillian-Barre syndrome, anti-MAG peripheral neuropathy, as well as the testing of treatments for the regeneration of damaged peripheral myelination from other causes.

Notes

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Graduation Date

2020

Semester

Summer

Advisor

Hickman, James

Degree

Master of Science (M.S.)

College

College of Graduate Studies

Department

Nanoscience Technology Center

Degree Program

Nanotechnology

Format

application/pdf

Identifier

CFE0008586; DP0024262

URL

https://purls.library.ucf.edu/go/DP0024262

Language

English

Release Date

2-15-2021

Length of Campus-only Access

None

Access Status

Masters Thesis (Open Access)

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