Association of microtubules and axonal RNA transferred from myelinating Schwann cells in rat sciatic nerve

PLoS One. 2020 May 29;15(5):e0233651. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0233651. eCollection 2020.

Abstract

Transference of RNAs and ribosomes from Schwann cell-to-axon was demonstrated in normal and regenerating peripheral nerves. Previously, we have shown that RNAs transfer is dependent on F-actin cytoskeleton and Myosin Va. Here, we explored the contribution of microtubules to newly synthesized RNAs transport from Schwann cell nuclei up to nodal microvilli in sciatic nerves. Results using immunohistochemistry and quantitative confocal FRET analysis indicate that Schwann cell-derived RNAs co-localize with microtubules in Schwann cell cytoplasm. Additionally, transport of Schwann cell-derived RNAs is nocodazole and colchicine sensitive demonstrating its dependence on microtubule network integrity. Moreover, mRNAs codifying neuron-specific proteins are among Schwann cell newly synthesized RNAs population, and some of them are associated with KIF1B and KIF5B microtubules-based motors.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Axons / metabolism*
  • Male
  • Microtubules / metabolism*
  • Myelin Sheath / metabolism
  • Nerve Regeneration
  • RNA / analysis
  • RNA / metabolism*
  • RNA Transport
  • Rats
  • Rats, Sprague-Dawley
  • Schwann Cells / metabolism*
  • Sciatic Nerve / metabolism*

Substances

  • RNA

Grants and funding

L.C., J.R.S.-S., A.K. and J.R.S. had research support from PEDECIBA (http://www.pedeciba.edu.uy/indice.php). L.C., J.F., A.D.P., J.R.S.-S., G.F., A.K. and J.R.S. had research support from MEyC (https://www.mec.gub.uy). L.C., J.R.S.-S., A.K. and J.R.S. had research support from ANII (https://www.anii.org.uy). The funders have no role in study design, data collection and analysis, decision to publish or preparation of the manuscript.