We at Novus Biologicals recently added PMP22, conjugated to Biotin, to our antibody database. PMP22 (Peripheral Myelin Protein 22) is important to the structure of the myelin sheath in peripheral nerves, and is encoded by the PMP22 gene.
The PMP22 gene is co-expressed with MBP (myelin basic protein) genes during regeneration and development of peripheral nerves. PMP22 is expressed throughout the compact myelin component of the peripheral nervous system, being produced by Schwann cells (which also produce the closely studied Po glycoprotein). Mutations and modifications to gene levels cause various hereditary demyelinating conditions, including Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, Dejerine-Sottas syndrome and HNPP (Hereditary Neuropathy with liability to Pressure Palsies). A duplicate PMP22 gene will cause CMT disease, while a deleted copy causes HNPP.
Antibody suppliers provide PMP22 antibodies for studies into neuropathological diseases and neuronal function. They are widely used as neuronal markers and have been used to research possible therapies for the repair of myelin sheath damage in humans. This includes the possible use of antibody therapy, which has shown promising results in mice.
A study by Melcangi et al suggested that neuroactive steroids could be used to regenerate demyelinated tissue. The PNS contains receptors for a range of steroids, both classical (e.g. progesterone) and non-classical (e.g. GABA). Melcangi’s study showed that that a number of neuroactive steroids stimulated Schwann cell production of PMP22 and Po both in vitro and in vivo. The steroids included dihydroprogesterone, tetrahydroprogesterone, dihydrotestosterone, 3 alpha-diol and progesterone.
We at Novus Biologicals have a large number of steroid receptor products in our antibody catalogue. The use of steroids to stimulate myelin protein activity continues to be of great interest.
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