Schwann cells originating in myeloid interstitial cells

Patent Number: 6989271

Schwann cells generate myelin (insulates neuronal electrical signals [amognst other things]) and are essential for the proper function of neuronal tissue. Various neurological diseases would benefit from the ability to introduce Schwann Cells that are properly functioning. The current patent teaches ways of using bone marrow stromal cells as a source of Schwann Cells. Specifically the patent has one independent claim which covers the in vitro generation of Schwann Cells from bone marrow stromal cells by culturing the bone marrow stromal cells in typical media, then culturing in media with a reducing agent, then culturing in retinoic acid, then with foskolin and/or other factors that are known to cause differentiation, survival and growth stimulation.

View this patent on the USPTO website.