Transplantation of Skin-Derived Precursor Schwann Cells Ameliorates Secondary Brain Injury after ICH in Mice by Activating the PI3K/AKT/FOXO3a Signaling Pathway.

Abstract

This study investigated the therapeutic potential of skin-derived precursor Schwann cells (SKP-SCs) for secondary brain injury following intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) and its underlying mechanisms. An ICH model was established in mice via intrastriatal autologous blood injection. SKP-SCs were administered intranasally 24 h post-ICH, with the AKT inhibitor GDC0068 used for intervention. Results demonstrated that transplanted SKP-SCs survived peri-hematomally, significantly improved short- and long-term neurological function, reduced brain tissue damage and neuronal apoptosis, preserved blood-brain barrier integrity, and suppressed microglial/macrophage activation and neutrophil infiltration. Mechanistically, SKP-SCs exerted neuroprotection by activating the PI3K/AKT/FOXO3a signaling pathway. In conclusion, intranasal SKP-SC transplantation alleviates ICH-induced deficits and secondary injury via this pathway, representing a promising therapeutic strategy during the acute phase following ICH.