T Fink, DF Davey, AD Ansselin
The Laboratory is interested in the role of Schwann cells in the nutritional support of peripheral nerve axons. Using fluorescence microscopy and intracellular calcium indicators, cultured Schwann cells were shown to be highly sensitive to a variety of molecules that might be released by active neurons. The cells were able to propagate calcium waves through dense cultures, indicating there is Schwann cell to Schwann cell communication. Using a new setup, human and guinea pig cells and a greater range of neuroligands were studied. Glutamate receptors on guinea pig Schwann cells were examined in greatest detail.