Response of NG2 positive cells and other glial cells in the microenvironment of facial nucleus after facial nerve axotomy

Objective To study the response of NG2 positive and other glial cells in the facial nucleus after facial nerve axotomy, and explore the changes of the microenvironment in the facial nucleus. Methods Rat facial nerve axotomy models were established. Immunofluorescence double staining, and immunohistochemical staining combined with cresyl violet staining were used to observe the response of NG2 cells and other glial cells, and Western blotting was performed to test NG2 protein expression in facial nucleus at postoperative 1, 2, 7, 14, and 28 days. Results Microglia formed dense circles closely around the injured neurons. Astrocytes formed wreath-like structure near the injured neurons. NG2 protein in the injured nucleus has a regular time-phase change and NG2 positive cells showed an extensive detachment of synaptic terminals on the damaged neurons after facial nerve axotomy. NG2 cell response was almost the same as microglia. Conclusions All kinds of glial cells may be involved in the formation of glial scar. NG2 positive cells could insulate the damaged neurons against the potential damage from the excitatory input. DOI: 10.11855/j.issn.0577-7402.2017.03.0