Protein perlecan, found in both humans and flies, is crucial for maintaining the structural integrity of neuronal axons, according to researchers at MIT. Without perlecan, axons can break, leading to the death of synapses. The study conducted by MIT’s Picower Institute for Learning and Memory revealed that perlecan, a protein present in the extracellular matrix surrounding cells, plays a vital role in supporting the development and flexibility of neurons. Without perlecan, axons can break apart during development, resulting in the retraction of synapses. The findings shed light on the importance of perlecan in sustaining the structural integrity of axons and neural circuits and may contribute to a better understanding of conditions like Schwartz-Jampel syndrome. The research, led by Ellen Guss, was published in the journal eLife on June 8, 2023. The study also emphasized the significance of perlecan secretion from multiple cell types for its critical role and highlighted the impact of the extracellular matrix’s rigidity on axon stability. The authors observed that movement stresses on axons, caused by a defective neural lamella, can lead to axon breakage and subsequent disruption of synapses.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about neuronal axon integrity
What is the role of the protein perlecan in neuronal axons?
Perlecan plays a crucial role in maintaining the structural integrity of neuronal axons. It is part of the extracellular matrix that surrounds cells and provides a stable and flexible environment for their development. Without perlecan, axons can break apart during development, leading to the death of synapses.
How does the absence of perlecan affect synapses?
When perlecan is absent, axons can break apart, causing the synapses they form to retract and eventually die away. The structural support provided by perlecan in the extracellular matrix is necessary for the stability and maintenance of synapses.
Can the findings in flies be applied to humans?
Yes, perlecan is found in both flies and humans. The study conducted at MIT’s Picower Institute for Learning and Memory reveals the vital role of perlecan in both species. The research provides insights into how perlecan deficiency can affect neuronal axons and synapses in humans, deepening our understanding of related conditions such as Schwartz-Jampel syndrome.
Is perlecan secretion from multiple cell types important?
Yes, the study shows that perlecan’s critical role depends on its secretion from multiple cell types, not just neurons. Blocking the protein in a specific cell type does not cause the same problems as a total knockdown. Perlecan secretion from various sources is necessary to maintain the integrity of the extracellular matrix and support proper axon development.
What are the implications of the research?
The research highlights the significance of perlecan in sustaining the structural integrity of axons and neural circuits. It enhances our understanding of how the extracellular matrix and perlecan contribute to axon stability and synapse formation. The findings have potential implications for studying neurodevelopmental disorders and advancing therapeutic strategies targeting neuronal connectivity.
More about neuronal axon integrity
- MIT News: Link to the article
- Study in eLife: Link to the study
- Picower Institute for Learning and Memory: Link to the institute
- Schwartz-Jampel Syndrome Foundation: Link to the foundation
