Schwann cells are neural crest derivatives that ensheathe and myelinate axons of peripheral nerves. They wrap individually around the shaft of peripheral axons, forming myelin sheath along segments of the axon. The cytoplasm and the nuclei of the Schwann cells which lie outside the myelin sheath are collectively called the neurilemma (also called neurolemma).
Schwann cells are the myelinating cells in the peripheral nervous system (PNS), play important roles in the development, function and regeneration of peripheral nerves. When an axon is dying, the Schwann cells surrounding it aid in its digestion. This leaves an empty channel formed by successive Schwann cells, through which a new axon may grow from a severed end. The number of Schwann cells in peripheral nerve is tightly regulated. Their proliferation in vitro can be stimulated by growth factors including PDGF, FGF, neuregulin and others. The Schwann cells provide a relatively simple, well-defined and accessible mammalian model for the study of a number of developmental questions. It is also of particular clinical importance to understand the biology of Schwann cells, not only in the context of neuropathies and nerve regeneration, but also because the cells or their precursor might be especially well suited as implants to facilitate repair in the CNS.HSC from AcceGen Research Laboratories are isolated from human spinal nerves. HSC are cryopreserved at passage one and delivered frozen. Each vial contains >5×10^5 cells in 1 ml volume. HSC are characterized by immunofluorescent method with antibodies to S-100, GFAP and CD90. HSC are negative for HIV-1, HBV, HCV, mycoplasma, bacteria, yeast and fungi. HSC are guaranteed to further culture in the conditions provided by AcceGen Research Laboratories.

For research use only