MHC class I and MHC class II reporter mice enable analysis of immune oligodendroglia in mouse models of multiple sclerosis

• DOI: 10.7554/elife.82938
• Publication Date: 2023-04-14T12:00:42Z
• Authors: Em P Harrington; Riley B Catenacci; Matthew D Smith; Dongeun Heo; Cecilia E Miller; Keya R Meyers; Jenna Glatzer; Dwight E Bergles; Peter A Calabresi
• Keywords: CD74

Oligodendrocytes and their progenitors upregulate MHC pathways in response to inflammation, but the frequency of this phenotypic change is unknown features these immune oligodendroglia are poorly defined. We generated class I II transgenic reporter mice define dynamics inflammatory demyelination, providing a means monitor activation diverse cell types living roles aging, injury, disease.Nerve cells brain spinal cord surrounded by layer insulation called myelin that allows transmit messages each other more quickly efficiently. This protective sheath produced oligodendrocytes which together with immature counterparts can also repair damage caused myelin. In disease multiple sclerosis (MS), disrupted fail breaks sheath, leaving nerves vulnerable further damage. Recently it was discovered mature (which collectively known as oligodendroglia) sometimes express proteins normally restricted system major histocompatibility complexes (or MHCs for short). Researchers believe expression may allow interact cells, potentially leading removal well inflammation exacerbates hinders repair. Knowing when start producing where MHC-expressing located therefore important understanding role MS. However, difficult identify location using methods currently available. To address this, Harrington, Catenacci et al. created genetically engineered mouse model red fluorescent protein could be detected under microscope. revealed only small number nervous had MHCs, were areas highest activity. Further microscopy studies developed MS-like symptoms production increased compared healthy animals, proportion most severe symptoms. congregated damaged cord. These results suggest contribute impact function have molecules. future, Harrington hope new will help researchers study different diseases, case MS, aid development treatments.