Cellular and Molecular Biology of Myelination

Abstract

© Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg 1990 Softeover reprint of the hardcover 1st edition 1990 2131/3140-543210-Printed on acid-free-paper PREFACEThe process of myelination is one of the key events during nervous system development and represent the ultimate step of cellular differentiation by which proper neuronal function is attained. Knowledge of the biochemistry and cell biology of the myelin-forming glia has advanced rapidly in recent years. This progress was to a large extent conveyed by the concerted application of new experimental tools, including improved cell culture systems, availability of specific immunological probes and the powerful development of recombinant DNA technology and cell transfection. The multidisciplinary aspects of glial cell biology and myelination were comprehensively dicussed by leading neuroscientist from Europe, Israel, USA and Canada at a NATO Advanced Research Workshop held at Monastery Ohrbeck, near Osnabruck, August 28 -September 2,1989.The meeting concentrated on the following major topics:A detailed characterization of the different steps of oligodendroglial differentiation ranging from a bipotential precurser to the actively myelinating oligodendrocyte was given. Subsequently the regenerative potential of mature oligodendrocytes after experimental lesioning was discussed and most recent progress made in the field of glial cell transplantation was reported.Furthermore the role of specific growth factors and their receptors for glial cell proliferation and differentiation were evaluated in detail. Special emphasis was given to the involvement of proteinkinases A and C in the underlying transmembrane signalling events. New avenues of glial cell biology were pursued by means of genetically manipulated cells. In a subsequent session recent developments in the field of myelin membrane biochemistry were discussed.Another topic of major interest was related to the molecular structure and regulation of genes coding for myelin proteins. Detailed information was given as regards the structure of myelin basic protein and proteolipid protein genes as well as the chain of events underlying myelin gene expression in the peripheral nervous system. VIThe rather remote location of the meeting place and its intimate setting provided an appropriate frame for fruitful discussions and a stimulating exchange of ideas in a friendly and harmonious atmosphere. We hope that these positive experiences are reflected in the contents of this book.The papers presented at the conference are combined m the present volume.The editors are very grateful to the participants for their cooperative efforts.