The use of schwann cell transplantation to foster central nervous system repair

Schwann cells (SCs) have been a key element in the demonstration of the ability of central nervous system (CNS) neurons to regenerate when provided with an appropriate environment. SCs transplanted into injured adult mammalian CNS (including the optic and septo-hippocampal systems, spinal cord and diencephalon) survive, promote axonal regeneration, and ensheathe or myelinate the regenerated axons. Methods to graft SCs into the lesioned CNS range from injection of a SC suspension to transplantation of more elaborate SC constructs using polymeric bridges. We discuss in detail the use of semipermeable guidance channels seeded with purified populations of SCs. These studies suggest that the ability of SCs to function in various injured CNS regions might lead to new avenues for the treatment of CNS injuries and demyelinating conditions in the human.