A proteome map of primary cultured rat Schwann cells

Two-dimensional liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (2D LC-MS/MS) was performed to identify the protein expressions in primary cultured SCs of rats. We identified a total of 1,232 proteins, which were categorized into 20 functional classes. We also used quantitative real time RT-PCR and Western blot analysis to validate some of proteomics-identified proteins.We showed for the first time the proteome map of SCs. Our data could serve as a reference library to provide basic information for understanding SC biology.Schwann cells (SCs) are the principal glial cells of the peripheral nervous system (PNS) with a wide range of biological functions [1]. Basically, SCs are able to wrap around the axons of neurons to form compact myelin sheaths, which allow for rapid and saltatory conduction of electrical impulses and support the integrity of axons in the PNS. SCs may also perform functions other than myelin formation; for example, SCs are involved in trophic support for neurons, formation of the neural extracellular matrix, modulation of neuromuscular synaptic activity, and orchestration of inflammation in the PNS. Collectively, SCs play a key role in the normal development and function of the PNS.After peripheral nerve injury, SCs aid in cleaning up the tissue debris and guide the regrowth of axons. To accomplish this, SCs proliferate to form longitudinal cell strands known as bands of Bungner, release neurotrophins, and guide the regenerating axons to target organs. On the other hand, several hereditary peripheral neuropathies, such as Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT), Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS), schwannomatosis, and chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP), are probably caused by genetic mutations in SCs, a knowledge of which is required for the prevention and treatment of these neuropathies.Collectively, SC biology has been an active area of neuroscience research. As compared to genomic and transcriptomic analysis, the identific