Factors Regulating Oligodendrocyte Progenitor Cell Migration: From Development to Remyelination

Oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs) in the central nervous system (CNS) are capable of proliferating, migrating, and differentiating into oligodendrocytes. OPCs are crucial for the myelination of axons during development and remyelination after injury in adulthood. OPCs also play important roles in promoting angiogenesis, neurotrophy, and immunomodulation, which makes them a relevant element of regenerative approaches for many CNS diseases, especially demyelinating ones. OPC migration is important during neurodevelopment and regeneration, and as such is regulated by a multitude of intracellular and extracellular factors. Identifying these factors will facilitate the optimized regulation of OPC migration and thus enhance therapeutic effects. This field is a current research hotspot, and new findings are constantly emerging. Here, we comprehensively review research progress on the regulatory factors that control OPC migration.