Neuroprotective effects of transplanted olfactory ensheathing cells on axotimized retinal ganglion cells in adult rats

Although olfactory ensheathing cells (OECs) have been successfully used to enhance axon regeneration within the injured central nervous system, no evidence could demonstrate any in vivo protective effect of such macroglial cells on injured central neurons. In the present study, we investigated the effect of OECs on neuronal survival of axotomized retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) in adult rats. OECs suspension or the same volume of DMEM/F12 medium was injected into the ocular stump of the orbitally transected ON in the experimental or control group. All animals were allowed to survive for 2, 7 or 14 days, respectively, following operation and the numbers of FluoroGold-labeled RGCs were counted. A significantly higher number (P < 0.01) was detected at 7 day in the experimental group than in the control group. Thus, transplanted OECs are capable of protecting injured RGCs at a certain period after ON transection.link_to_subscribed_fulltex