Expanding roles for the Schwann cell: ensheathment, myelination, trophism and regeneration

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Abstract

Schwann cells show remarkable versatility in undertaking a broad repertoire of functions. It is now clear that the well known functions of ensheathment and myelination are specifically regulated by contact with axons, that the Schwann cell is centrally involved in extracellular matrix production in the peripheral nerve trunk, and that the Schwann cell plays a critical role in promoting axonal regeneration in the peripheral nervous system. The Schwann cell's ability to promote regenerative efforts in many central neurons has led to an increasing interest in using Schwann cell autografts for central nervous system repair.

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    RP Bunge, The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, Departments of Neurological Surgery, Cell Biology and Anatomy, and Neurology, University of Miami School of Medicine, 1600 N.W. 10th Avenue, R-48, Miami, Florida 33136, USA.

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