Journal of neuroscience research
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Differentiation and self-renewal are two primary properties that characterize stem cells. Differentiation of neural stem/precursor cells (NSPCs) gives rise to multiple neural lineages, including neurons, astrocytes, and oligodendrocytes. ⋯ The epigenetic modification of developmental genes, including alterations in DNA methylation, histone modifications, polycomb gene group and noncoding RNA expression, which are passed on through successive cell divisions, has proved to be one of the major mechanisms determining the fate of neural stem cells. Here, we review the diverse epigenetic pathways that decide whether NSPCs undergo proliferation or differentiation into different neuronal cell lineages.
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Previous studies have suggested that the release of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) from microglia in spinal cord is necessary for maintaining pain hypersensitivity after nerve injury. However, little is known about its role in cancer-induced bone pain (CIBP), which is in some ways unique. This study demonstrates a critical role of minocycline (a potent inhibitor of microglial activation)-modulated BDNF in the induction and maintenance of behavioral hypersensitivity in a rat model of CIBP. ⋯ However, at the late stage (from day 10 to day 12), intrathecal minocycline had no effect. Moreover, the expression of OX-42 and BDNF under CIBP, peaking on day 6, were all reduced after minocycline injection from day 4 to day 6. The ability of minocycline-induced reduction of BDNF in the induction of behavioral hypersensitivity could provide an opportunity for alleviating CIBP.