Enhancement of Polysialic Acid Expression Improves Function of Embryonic Stem‐Derived Dopamine Neuron Grafts in Parkinsonian Mice. (5th December 2013)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Battista, Daniela; Ganat, Yosif; El Maarouf, Abderrahman; Studer, Lorenz; Rutishauser, Urs
• Is Part Of: Stem cells translational medicine. Volume 3:Number 1(2014)
• Page Start: 108
• Page End: 113
• Publication Date: 2013-12-05
• Subjects: Parkinson disease -- Embryonic stem cells -- Sialic acids -- Brain tissue transplantation -- Dopaminergic neurons -- Neuronal plasticity; Stem cells -- Periodicals; Regenerative medicine -- Periodicals; Periodicals; 616.0277405
• DOI: 10.5966/sctm.2013-0084
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2157-6564

Abstract

Abstract : The authors show that enhanced expression of polysialic acid results in improved graft efficiency in correcting behavioral deficits in parkinsonian mice. Because the procedures used to enhance polysialic acid are easily translated to other cell types and species, this approach may represent a general strategy to improve graft integration in cell‐based therapies. Abstract : There has been considerable progress in obtaining engraftable embryonic stem (ES) cell‐derived midbrain dopamine neurons for cell replacement therapy in models of Parkinson's disease; however, limited integration and striatal reinnervation of ES‐derived grafts remain a major challenge for future clinical translation. In this paper, we show that enhanced expression of polysialic acid results in improved graft efficiency in correcting behavioral deficits in Parkinsonian mice. This result is accompanied by two potentially relevant cellular changes: greater survival of transplanted ES‐derived dopamine neurons and robust sprouting of tyrosine hydroxylase‐positive processes into host tissue. Because the procedures used to enhance polysialic acid are easily translated to other cell types and species, this approach may represent a general strategy to improve graft integration in cell‐based therapies.