Co-culturing of a Dorsal Root Ganglion Explant with Schwann Cells for Neuron Myelination

Begin with a multi-well plate containing a coverslip coated with poly-D-lysine and a neuron growth medium.

Place the mouse embryonic dorsal root ganglion, or DRG, rich in sensory neurons, into this well and incubate.

DRG neurons utilize the nutrients and growth factors that facilitate their growth, followed by the extension of neuronal projections, forming axons.

These axons grow out from DRG tissue, establishing the DRG explant culture.

Replace the medium with an ascorbic acid-supplemented co-culture medium with Schwann cells, a specialized glial cell.

Over time, axons secrete signaling molecules that trigger Schwann cell migration toward the axons.

Meanwhile, the ascorbic acid stimulates various signaling pathways in the Schwann cells.

These activated cells begin to extend their lipid-rich plasma membranes around the axons, wrapping them in multiple layers to form the myelin sheath.

This myelination results in an insulating covering around the axons, which is essential for efficient neuronal communication.