Reciprocal Interactions between Oligodendrocyte Precursor Cells and the Neurovascular Unit in Health and Disease

Oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) are mostly known for their capability to differentiate into oligodendrocytes and myelinate axons. However, they have been observed to frequently interact with cells of the neurovascular unit during development, homeostasis, and under pathological conditions. The functional consequences of these interactions are largely unclear, but are increasingly studied. Although OPCs appear to be a rather homogenous cell population in the central nervous system (CNS), they present with an enormous potential to adapt to their microenvironment. In this review, it is summarized what is known about the various roles of OPC-vascular interactions, and the circumstances under which they have been observed.

Automated summary

Oligodendrocyte precursor cells have the capability to differentiate into oligodendrocytes and myelinate axons, but they also frequently interact with cells of the neurovascular unit. The consequences of these interactions are not yet clear, but are being increasingly studied. Despite their apparent homogeneity, OPCs have the potential to adapt to their microenvironment. This review summarizes the various roles of OPC-vascular interactions and the circumstances under which they have been observed.