Schwann cells induce Proliferation and Migration of Oligodendrocyte Precursor Cells Through Secretion of PDGF-AA and FGF-2.

Our previous study has showed that co-grafted Schwann cells (SCs) promote proliferation and migration of the grafted oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs). However, how the co-grafted SCs affect OPCs has not been clarified. In the present study, we confirmed that SC-induced proliferation and migration of OPCs were mediated by SC-secreted factors using SC-conditioned medium (SCM). Then, we detected several candidate factors, PDGF-AA, FGF-2, and IGF-1, in SCs and SCM, and their receptors in OPCs. Finally, by using the selective inhibitors, the effects of these candidate factors on proliferation and migration of OPCs were examined. Our results showed that SCM-stimulated proliferation and migration of OPCs could be markedly decreased by both AG1295 (the inhibitor of PDGFR) and PD173074 (the inhibitor of FGFR). Together, our study suggests that SCs affect proliferation and migration of OPCs through secreting PDGF-AA and FGF-2. Identity of these molecules not only contributes to understand the mechanism of SC-induced proliferation and migration of OPCs but also provides possible target for treatment of CNS diseases.