The Schwann Cell

Abstract

The neurones are the cells of the nervous system and are surrounded and protected by glials cells. In the peripheral nervous system the Schwann cells (SC) are the glia of the nerves. The prolongations or neurites (axon and dendrite) of the neurones bodies are surrounded by the SC to form nervous fibers. The intimate relationship between the SC and the neurite is determined during embryonic development. The SC is essential for the correct migration of the neurites towards their final destination, but the neurites induce SC maturation as well. This interaction between SC and neurite is determined by paracrine factors and membrane receptors of the two interacting cells, inducing the differentiation of SC in myelinic and non-myelinic, determining the correct number of SC necessary to surround the neurites, the adequate formation of myelin and the correct relationships of the CS with the extracellular matrix. In this way the nervous fiberinnervating or receiving stimuli in peripheral tissues is formed. The SC has also a key role in the regeneration of the neurites after damage of a peripheral nerve.

Keywords

• Célula de Schwann
• Diferenciación
• Mielina
• Factores Autocrinos y Paracrinos