: The myelin sheath is a unique component of the nervous system. Either a Schwann cell in the peripheral nervous system or an oligodendrocyte in the central nervous system is capable of forming myelin. There is extensive signaling and cross talk between the myelin-forming cell and the neuron to control the various stages of myelin formation, e.g., cell proliferation, migration, and differentiation. Of particular interest are the growth factors and hormones that regulate these stages. Steroid hormones, such as progesterone, have been shown to play a role in the regulation of myelin synthesis. The mRNAs for the enzymes that make progesterone are induced at the onset of myelin synthesis. Changes in gene expression caused by steroid hormones are being examined to identify additional signal transduction molecules that control myelin formation.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS)
Type
Predoctoral Individual National Research Service Award (F31)
Project #
5F31NS042369-03
Application #
6641142
Study Section
Special Emphasis Panel (ZRG1-BIOL-1 (01))
Program Officer
Utz, Ursula
Project Start
2002-08-21
Project End
Budget Start
2003-08-21
Budget End
2004-08-20
Support Year
3
Fiscal Year
2003
Total Cost
$35,271
Indirect Cost
Name
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Department
Biochemistry
Type
Schools of Arts and Sciences
DUNS #
041544081
City
Champaign
State
IL
Country
United States
Zip Code
61820