Oligodendrocyte precursor cells facilitate neuronal lysosome release

Oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) shape brain function through complex mechanisms. We found that OPCs facilitate neuronal lysosome exocytosis by contacting neuronal somata. Reduced number or process branching of OPCs decreased these contacts, accompanied with lysosome accumulation and altered metabolism in neurons, and more senescent neurons with age. In Alzheimer's mouse models, OPC-neuron contacts were fewer, and lysosomes accumulated. Our findings are relevant for preventing aging-related pathologies and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.