Differentiation of neural stem cells into oligodendrocytes. Epigenetic mechanisms & potential applications in multiple sclerosis

PhD ceremony: Mr. Falak Sher, 14.45 uur, Academiegebouw, Broerstraat 5, Groningen

Title: Differentiation of neural stem cells into oligodendrocytes. Epigenetic mechanisms & potential applications in multiple sclerosis

Promotor(s): prof. H.W.G.M. Boddeke

Faculty: Medical Sciences

Differentiation of neural stem cells into oligodendrocytes, the myelinating brain cells, is a potential source for grafting to restore axonal damage in multiple sclerosis. The research focused on (a) revealing regulatory mechanisms that underlie the differentiation of neural stem cells into oligodendrocyte precursor cells, and (b) monitoring the survival, migration, and functionality of these oligodendrocyte precursor cells after implantation in multiple sclerosis animal models. An epigenetic regulator protein was identified as indispensable factor for stable differentiation of neural stem cells. Also, the researchers located the specific genes whose expression is controlled during neural stem cell differentiation. After grafting the oligodendrocyte precursor cells, the long-term ability to remyelinate axons and their efficacy to reduce clinical symptoms in acute and chronic episodes of multiple sclerosis was demonstrated.