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