Flipping the transcriptional switch from myelin inhibition to axon growth in the CNS. Academic Article uri icon

Overview

abstract

  • Poor regeneration of severed axons in the central nervous system (CNS) limits functional recovery. Regeneration failure involves interplay of inhibitory environmental elements and the growth state of the neuron. To find internal changes in gene expression that might overcome inhibitory environmental cues, we compared several paradigms that allow growth in the inhibitory environment. Conditions that allow axon growth by axotomized and cultured dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons on CNS myelin include immaturity (the first few postnatal days), high levels of cyclic adenosine mono phosphate (cAMP), and conditioning with a peripheral nerve lesion before explant. This shift from inhibition to growth depends on transcription. Seeking to understand the transcriptome changes that allow axon growth in the CNS, we collaborated with the Marie Filbin laboratory to identify several mRNAs that are functionally relevant, as determined by gain- and loss-of-function studies. In this Perspective, we review evidence from these experiments and discuss the merits of comparing multiple regenerative paradigms to identify a core transcriptional program for CNS axon regeneration.

publication date

  • July 17, 2015

Identity

PubMed Central ID

  • PMC4505142

Scopus Document Identifier

  • 84940972088

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

  • 10.3389/fnmol.2015.00034

PubMed ID

  • 26236189

Additional Document Info

volume

  • 8