Cdon, a cell surface protein, mediates oligodendrocyte differentiation and myelination

The objective of our study was to assess whether Cdon, a cell surface protein that was shown to participate in muscle and neuron cell development, is involved in oligodendrocyte (OLG) differentiation and myelination. Here, we demonstrate that endogenous Cdon protein is expressed in OLPs, increasing in the early differentiation stages and decreasing in mature OLGs. Immunocytochemistry of endogenous Cdon showed localization on both OLG cell membranes and cellular processes exhibiting puncta‐ or varicosity‐like structures. Cdon knockdown with siRNA decreased protein levels by 62% as well as two myelin‐specific proteins, MBP and MAG. Conversely, overexpression of full‐length rat Cdon increased myelin proteins in OLGs. The complexity of OLGs branching and contact point numbers with axons were also increased in Cdon overexpressing cells growing alone or in coculture with dorsal root ganglion neurons (DRGNs). Furthermore, myelination of DRGNs was decreased when OLPs were transfected with Cdon siRNA. Altogether, our results suggest that Cdon participates in OLG differentiation and myelination, most likely in the initial stages of development. GLIA 2016

Main points

Cdon, a cell surface molecule, promotes the initiation of oligodendrocytes differentiation by increasing branching of processes and axonal contacts. This results in an increased myelination of dorsal root ganglion neuron.

Source: Glia - March 15, 2016 Category: Neurology Authors: Li‐Chun Wang, Guillermina Almazan Tags: Research Article Source Type: research