Bcl-xL increases axonal numbers but not axonal elongation from rat retinal explants

The Bcl-2 family of proteins has been characterized as a key regulator of cell death programs. In addition, these proteins also play important roles in cellular differentiation, such as axonal growth. The role of Bcl-2 family members on axonal regeneration and neurite extension has been controversial so far. Here, we examine the influence of Bcl-xL on axonal regeneration from adult retina explants in vitro. We delivered recombinant Bcl-xL into retinal tissue, mediated by the Tat-protein transduction domain, and observed its effect on retinal axon extension. We found that Bcl-xL increased the number of regenerating neurites, but did not increase their length. Our results indicate that Bcl-xL stimulates axonal initiation but not axonal elongation after crush injury to retinal explants, without altering the number of surviving neurons.