Axons in Trouble Yelp for Help From Schwann Cells

Abstract

The axons of our nerves are like long wires that carry important communication signals around the body. Axons are not alone in nerves; they are surrounded by special cells called Schwann cells. This companionship allows our bodies to do things such as go to school, catch a ball, and eat. In some people with illnesses called neuromuscular diseases, axons fall seriously sick and may wither away. We discovered that when axons become sick, Schwann cells quickly detect the issue. The Schwann cells act as an emergency-response team that delivers an extra supply of special sugars to axons in need. This sugar-boost makes harmed axons stronger and allows them to recover. We hope that this discovery will lead to novel therapies that will help keep axons alive in sick people.