Methods for drug discovery using stem cell-derived schwann cells

Abstract

The presently disclosed subject matter relates to use of Schwann cell precursors and Schwann cells derived from stem cells (e.g., human stem cells) for drug discovery in regeneration of peripheral nervous system (PNS) and / or central nervous system (CNS), prevention and / or repair myelin damages, and / or prevention and / or treatment of Schwann cell-related disorder (e.g., peripheral neuropathy diabetic peripheral neuropathy).

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application is a Continuation of International Patent Application No. PCT / US17 / 61549 filed Nov. 14, 2017, which claims priority to U.S. Application No. 62 / 421,816 filed Nov. 14, 2016, and the contents of each of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties herein, and to each of which priority is claimed.INTRODUCTION[0002]The presently disclosed subject matter relates to use of Schwann cell precursors and Schwann cells derived from stem cells (e.g., human stem cells) for drug discovery in regeneration of peripheral nervous system (PNS) and / or central nervous system (CNS), prevention and / or repair of myelin damages, and / or prevention and / or treatment of Schwann cell-related disorder (e.g., peripheral neuropathy diabetic peripheral neuropathy). It further provides for methods of treatment of Schwann cell related disorders using compounds identified by said drug discovery materials and methods.BACKGROUND[0003]Schwann c...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent is about using stem cells to create models for studying diseases of the peripheral nervous system and central nervous system, as well as for developing treatments for these disorders. The stem cells are derived from in vitro differentiation of stem cells and can be screened using a variety of methods to identify compounds that can regenerate nerves, prevent damage to myelin, and treat diseases such as peripheral neuropathy and diabetic peripheral neuropathy. The patent also describes methods for inducing the differentiation of stem cells into Schwann cells, which are important for regeneration and repair of nerves. Overall, the patent provides technical means for studying and treating diseases of the nervous system using stem cells.

Problems solved by technology

It represents a major health problem causing reduced quality of life and increased morbidity and mortality (La Fontaine et al., 2014).

There are currently no effective treatments for DPN other than pursuing the primary goal of preventing further damage by carefully monitoring and adjusting glucose levels.

Dissecting cell type specific mechanisms is very challenging in current animal models of DPN given the complex contribution of non-cell autonomous factors including systemic vascular abnormalities to the disease phenotype.

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