Abstract: ObjectiveTo investigate Schwann cells whether survival and migration after transplanted to central nervous system for a long-term.MethodsThe Schwann cells of rat were expended in vitro, the part of them were labeled with 5'-bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) and transplanted to rat's middle brain injured by electric needle stimulus, the others were labeled with Hoechst 33342, seeded to PLGA scaffold, and transplanted to rat's transected spinal cord. 8 and 11 months later, rat brain and spinal cord were taken out respectively, examined by BrdU immunohistochemistry and fluorescence microscope.ResultsBrdU positive cells could be seen after 8 months and migrated toward cerebral cortex. Hoechst 33342 positive cells could be identified in scaffold and transected spinal cord after 11 months under fluorescence microscope.ConclusionGrafted Schwann cells can survive in central nervous system for a long-term and migrate toward distance.

Key words: Schwann cell, central nervous system, 5'-bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU), Hoechst 33342, rat