Analysis of Gpr126 function defines distinct mechanisms controlling the initiation and maturation of myelin.

ABSTRACT: In peripheral nerves, Schwann cells form the myelin sheath, which allows the efficient propagation of action potentials along axons. The transcription factor Krox20 regulates the initiation of myelination in Schwann cells and is also required to maintain mature myelin. The adhesion G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) Gpr126 is essential for Schwann cells to initiate myelination, but previous studies have not addressed the role of Gpr126 signaling in myelin maturation and maintenance. Through analysis of Gpr126 in zebrafish, we define two distinct mechanisms controlling the initiation and maturation of myelin. We show that gpr126 mutant Schwann cells elaborate mature myelin sheaths and maintain krox20 expression for months, provided that the early signaling defect is bypassed by transient ele

SUBMITTER: Glenn TD 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3931731 | biostudies-literature | 2013 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature