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Clinical implications of Schwann cell biology
Author(s) -
Armati Patricia J.,
Mathey Emily K.
Publication year - 2014
Publication title -
journal of the peripheral nervous system
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1
H-Index - 67
eISSN - 1529-8027
pISSN - 1085-9489
DOI - 10.1111/jns5.12057
Subject(s) - schwann cell , neural crest , myelin , neuroglia , neuroscience , peripheral nervous system , biology , cell , pathology , medicine , microbiology and biotechnology , central nervous system , embryo , genetics
The neuroglia of the peripheral nervous system ( PNS ) are derived from the neural crest and are a diverse family of cells. They consist of myelinating Schwann cells, non‐myelinating Schwann cells, satellite cells, and perisynaptic Schwann cells. Due to their prominent role in the formation of myelin, myelinating Schwann cells are the best recognised of these cells. However, Schwann cells and the other neuroglia of the PNS have many functions that are independent of myelination and contribute significantly to the functioning of the peripheral nerve in both health and disease. Here we discuss the contribution of PNS neuroglial cells to clinical deficit in neurodegenerative disease, peripheral neuropathy, and pain.