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Perlecan

All articles tagged with #perlecan

The Crucial Protein for Neuron Survival.

Originally Published 2 years ago — by SciTechDaily

MIT scientists found that the protein perlecan is vital for maintaining the structural integrity of neuronal axons. Without it, axons can break, leading to the death of synapses. Perlecan is part of the extracellular matrix that surrounds cells and helps them develop in a supportive, yet non-rigid environment. Humans need at least some perlecan to survive after birth. Mutations that reduce, but don’t eliminate, perlecan can cause Schwartz-Jampel syndrome, in which patients experience neuromuscular problems and skeletal abnormalities.

science science axons neurons perlecan protein science synapses

Perlecan Protein Vital for Long-Lasting Synapses, Study Finds.

Originally Published 2 years ago — by Neuroscience News

Perlecan, a protein that aids in stabilizing the extracellular matrix surrounding cells, plays a critical role in maintaining the structural integrity of neurons, particularly the long branches called axons. The absence of Perlecan in Drosophila fruit flies led to the death of their connections or synapses. The research highlights the importance of Perlecan in understanding neuromuscular disorders like Schwartz-Jampel syndrome and how neurons develop and function.

health neuroscience extracellular-matrix neuromuscular-disorders neurons neuroscience perlecan synaptic-durability