Glial Cell Model Development
Protheragen is spearheading the development of innovative human-relevant models of glial cells to enhance drug discovery for neurodegenerative diseases and neuroinflammation. Our iPSC-derived, primary cell-derived, and genetically engineered cell line-derived models serve as an forward-looking, predictive platform for target validation, mechanistic studies, PD/PK analysis, and safety evaluations.
Introduction to Glial Cell Models
Glial cells, once regarded as mere supportive structure of neurons, now are understood to actively participate in the modulation of neural function, synaptic plasticity, and neuroinflammation. The development of models pertaining to glial cells has become crucial in studies concerning neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental disorders.
Astrocyte Models
Astrocytes are the most abundant glial cells in the central nervous system (CNS). They have key functions like regulating synapses, supporting metabolism, and responding to neuroinflammation. Astrocyte models obtained from iPSCs have advanced the study of neurodegenerative diseases.
Microglial Models
Microglia are the primary immune cells of the CNS responsible for neuroinflammation, synaptic pruning, and pathogen defense. These models are particularly helpful in screening for anti-inflammatory drugs and evaluating polarization in microglia during disease processes.
Oligodendrocyte Models
Demyelinating diseases result from the dysfunction of oligodendrocytes which are crucial for the myelination of axons in the central nervous system. The dynamics of myelination along with remyelination therapies can be studied using Oligodendrocyte progenitor cell (OPC) models.
Schwann Cell Models
As the primary glial cells of the peripheral nervous system (PNS), Schwann cells are indispensable to myelination and the regeneration of nerves. These iPSC models or primary cultures are used for studying peripheral nerve trauma, Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, and neuropathic pain.
Applications of Glial Cell Models
Glial cell models are essential for studying the pathology of neurological diseases, neuroinflammation, drug development, and regenerative medicine, enabling researchers to explore inflammation and degeneration of neural tissues as well as myelination disorders. These models are utilized to clarify the mechanisms of diseases and to test various therapies. Additionally, they aid in safety assessments, the search for new biomarkers, and personalized medicine using patient's induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs).
Fig.1 Human iPSC-derived glial cell model. (Magni G, et al., 2024)
Our Services
Through our physiologically relevant glial cell models, Protheragen facilitates the research of therapeutics for rare motor neuron diseases (MND) and other neurological disorders. Our preclinical models for the evaluation of neuroprotective compounds along with anti-remyelinating and remyelinating therapies integrates functional screening and gene editing of disease-related mutations, providing unparalleled value.
Workflow of Glial Cell Model Development
Model Design Consultation
Cell Sourcing or Engineering
Differentiation or Activation
Functional Assays
Data Analysis
Model Delivery
Diversified Glial Cell Models
Our scientists create complex models of neurological diseases by developing human glial cell models from iPSCs, primary cell cultures, and engineered cell lines. To enhance the acceleration of targeted therapies, we provide researchers with customizable flexible options and controllable experimental platforms.
- Astrocyte Models
- Oligodendrocyte Models
- Microglial Models
- Schwann Cell Models
- Co-Culture Models
- More
Model Advantages
All of Protheragen's patient-derived glial cell models are developed under strict ethical guidelines and regulatory compliance, ensuring donor informed consent, data anonymity, and traceability. We provide biologically compliant models that faithfully replicate disease mechanisms while meeting global research standards.
- Patient-Specific Accuracy
- Translational Relevance
- Functional Verification
- Regulatory Compliance
- Strict Quality Control
- Customization
The glial cell model developed by Protheragen allows comprehensive pharmacodynamic (PD), pharmacokinetic (PK), and toxicology evaluation of nervous system therapeutics. If you are interested in our services, please feel free to contact us for more details and quotation information of related services.
Reference
- Magni G, Riboldi B, Ceruti S. Human Glial Cells as Innovative Targets for the Therapy of Central Nervous System Pathologies[J]. Cells, 2024, 13(7): 606.