Contactin-1 regulates myelination and nodal/paranodal domain organization in the central nervous system

• Myelin is a multilayered membrane sheath that encircles axons to enable rapid information processing and protect neurons. Formation of myelin requires communication between axons and oligodendrocytes, the myelin-forming cells in the CNS. Here we identify Contactin-1 as a critical signal for axon–glia communication in CNS myelin. Gene ablation in mice shows that Contactin-1 is necessary for myelin sheath formation by oligodendrocytes and establishment of paranodal axoglial junctions that regulate the domain organization and enable rapid nerve impulse conduction of myelinated nerves. The multiple and critical aspects of Contactin-1 in central myelin formation identified in the current study will guide novel approaches aimed at enhancing regeneration in demyelinating diseases that specifically affect the CNS.

Publikations- och innehållstyp

ref (ämneskategori)

art (ämneskategori)