Runx2 regulates peripheral nerve regeneration to promote Schwann cell migration and re-myelination

Rong Hu*, Xinpeng Dun, Lolita Singh, Matthew C. Banton

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

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Abstract

Runx2 is a major regulator of osteoblast differentiation and function; however, the role of Runx2 in peripheral nerve repair is unclear. Here, we analyzed Runx2 expression following injury and found that it was specifically up-regulated in Schwann cells. Furthermore, using Schwann cell-specific Runx2 knockout mice, we studied peripheral nerve development and regeneration and found that multiple steps in the regeneration process following sciatic nerve injury were Runx2-dependent. Changes observed in Runx2 knockout mice include increased proliferation of Schwann cells, impaired Schwann cell migration and axonal regrowth, reduced re-myelination of axons, and a block in macrophage clearance in the late stage of regeneration. Taken together, our findings indicate that Runx2 is a key regulator of Schwann cell plasticity, and therefore peripheral nerve repair. Thus, our study shows that Runx2 plays a major role in Schwann cell migration, re-myelination, and peripheral nerve functional recovery following injury.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1575-1583
Number of pages9
JournalNeural Regeneration Research
Volume19
Issue number7
Early online date8 Nov 2023
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Jul 2024

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Developmental Neuroscience

Keywords

  • Runx2
  • Schwann cells
  • macrophage clearance
  • migration
  • peripheral nerve injury
  • re-myelination
  • regeneration

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