Neurite-like outgrowth from CNS explants may not always be of neuronal origin.
In living explants of the developing CNS 'true' neurites (neuronal processes) may appear virtually indistinguishable from the processes of radial and Bergmann glia. This inability to clearly distinguish the phenotype of responsive 'neurites' in the living state has profound implications for the interpretation of responses to 'neurite-promoting' substances. Labeling techniques, specific for intermediate filament proteins that are characteristic of neurons and neuroglia, should always be used to supplement morphologic observations on neurite-like outgrowth from living CNS explants.
Toran-Allerand
C D
CD
Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY 10032.
D000818:Animals; D002454:Cell Differentiation; D002490:Central Nervous System / Q000166:cytology* / Q000378:metabolism; D005904:Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein / Q000378:metabolism*; D007381:Intermediate Filament Proteins / Q000378:metabolism*; D051379:Mice; D016900:Neurofilament Proteins; D009457:Neuroglia / Q000166:cytology* / Q000378:metabolism; D009474:Neurons / Q000166:cytology* / Q000378:metabolism; D009924:Organ Culture Techniques; D051381:Rats
D005904:Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein; D007381:Intermediate Filament Proteins; D016900:Neurofilament Proteins