In vitro models using Schwann cell and astrocyte co-cultures have been used to understand the mechanisms underlying the formation of boundaries between these cells in vivo. Schwann cell/astrocyte co-cultures also mimic the in vivo scenario of a transplant in a spinal cord injury site, thereby allowing testing of therapeutic approaches. In this chapter, we describe a triple cell culture system with Schwann cells, astrocytes, and neurons that replicates axon growth from a Schwann cell graft into an astrocyte-rich region. In vitro studies using this model can accelerate the discovery of more effective therapeutic combinations to be used along with Schwann cell transplantation after spinal cord injuries.
Keywords: Astrocytes; Axon growth; Co-cultures; Glial barrier; Neurons; Schwann cells.