RESUMEN
AIM: To detect dystrophin expression in skeletal muscles of mdx mice after bone marrow transplantation (BMT), and to evaluate the effect of BMT on Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). METHODS: Bone marrow cells were cultured for three days, and then transplanted into mdx mice irradiated lethally through tail veins. After 4 and 6 months, dystrophin expression on myocytes membranes in mdx mice was detected by fluorescent immunohistochemical staining. The centrally nucleated fibers (CNF) were calculated by HE staining, and the physiologic parameters measured and the motor function detected by traction test, rotating rods test and rotating wheels test were also observed. RESULTS: Until 4 and 6 months after BMT, dystrophin was expressed partly on myocytes membranes in mdx mice, and the ratio of CNF decreased, physiologic functions improved, the motor ability reinforced in treated group. CONCLUSION: After BMT, marrow stem cells settled in injured skeletal muscles and bone marrow, then differentiated into myocytes with dystrophin expression and caused the improvement of pathology, physiology and motor function in treated group finally. These results give a powerful proof for the treatment of DMD with BMT.