Function of RhoGTPases in axon ensheathment and myelination

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Glia. 2008 Sep 19;56(14):1508-1517.

The function of RhoGTPases in axon ensheathment and myelination.

Feltri ML, Suter U, Relvas JB.

DIBIT, San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milano, Italy.

RhoGTPases are molecular switches that integrate extracellular

signals to perform diverse cellular responses. This ability relies on

the network of proteins regulating RhoGTPases activity and

localization, and on the interaction of RhoGTPases with many

different cellular effectors.

Myelination is an ideal place for RhoGTPases regulation, as it is the

result of fine orchestration of many stimuli from at least two cell

types. Recent work has revealed that RhoGTPases are required for

Schwann cells to sort, ensheath, and myelinate axons.

Here, we will review these recent advances showing the critical roles

for RhoGTPases in various aspects of Schwann development and

myelination, including the recent discovery of their involvement in

Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease. Comparison with potential roles of

RhoGTPases in central nervous system myelination will be drawn.