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The role of myelin plasticity in specific CNS functions - learning and memory, reward system
Pfeiferová, Diana ; Pivoňková, Helena (advisor) ; Kriška, Ján (referee)
Neuroplasticity is a fundamental characteristic of the brain that allows it to adapt to changes in the environment, learn new skills or recover from injuries. Although the majority of scientific literature on neuroplasticity has focused on neurons and synaptic changes, recent research suggests another important mechanism that is based on myelin plasticity. The goal of this bachelor thesis is to present a literature review on current research trends in the topic of myelin plasticity. The focus revolves around the function of myelin, the lipid membrane that provides insulation and support to axons, and the concept of myelination as an adaptive process. The relationship between activity-dependent myelination, its triggers, and the effect on specific brain circuits function and dysfunction are thoroughly discussed. Research in myelin plasticity has led to a change in the paradigm of brain plasticity, as there is now clear evidence that the latter cannot be fully understood without taking the former into account.
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Role of glial cells in pathophysiology of demyelinating diseases of the nervous system
Holásek, Michal ; Kriška, Ján (advisor) ; Pivoňková, Helena (referee)
Glial cells, such as oligodendrocytes, Schwann cells, NG2 glia, astrocytes, and microglia, play a major role in the homeostasis of the nervous system, including the myelin sheath maintenance. Enveloping myelin sheaths produced by oligodendrocytes and Schwann cells, provide a mechanical, isolating, and trophic support to the axons. Importantly, a disruption of a certain component or a dysregulation of a specific process may lead to the collapse and the loss of the myelin sheath, known as demyelination. Axonal demyelination is a pathological condition characteristic of different neurological diseases, such as multiple sclerosis, acute disseminated encephalomyelitis, Charcot-Marie- Toth disease, or Lyme neuroborreliosis. Since, demyelinating diseases are still more prevalent in the population, a suitable and effective treatment is crucial for the patients. However, treatment is not available, which results from an insufficient understanding of pathological mechanisms, low permeability through the blood-brain barrier, and a limited regenerative capacity of the nervous system. Therefore, further research in the field of demyelinating diseases is necessary. Key words: oligodendrocyte precursor cell, oligodendrocyte, Schwann cell, myelination, acute disseminated encephalomyelitis, multiple sclerosis,...
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