Extracellular matrix: functions in the nervous system.
An astonishing number of extracellular matrix glycoproteins are expressed in dynamic patterns in the developing and adult nervous system. Neural stem cells, neurons, and glia express receptors that mediate interactions with specific extracellular matrix molecules. Functional studies in vitro and genetic studies in mice have provided evidence that the extracellular matrix affects virtually all aspects of nervous system development and function. Here we will summarize recent findings that have shed light on the specific functions of defined extracellular matrix molecules on such diverse processes as neural stem cell differentiation, neuronal migration, the formation of axonal tracts, and the maturation and function of synapses in the peripheral and central nervous system.
The Scripps Research Institute, Department of Cell Biology, Dorris Neuroscience Center, La Jolla, California 92037, USA.
Claudia S
CS
Barros
Santos J
SJ
Franco
Ulrich
U
Müller
D000818:Animals; D001369:Axons / Q000502:physiology*; D015816:Cell Adhesion Molecules, Neuronal / Q000378:metabolism; D002454:Cell Differentiation / Q000502:physiology*; D002465:Cell Movement / Q000502:physiology*; D005109:Extracellular Matrix / Q000502:physiology*; D016326:Extracellular Matrix Proteins / Q000378:metabolism*; D007797:Laminin / Q000378:metabolism; D051379:Mice; D009419:Nerve Tissue Proteins / Q000378:metabolism; D009420:Nervous System / Q000166:cytology*; D058953:Neural Stem Cells / Q000378:metabolism*; D011509:Proteoglycans / Q000378:metabolism; D000091042:Reelin Protein; D012697:Serine Endopeptidases / Q000378:metabolism; D013569:Synapses / Q000502:physiology*; D019063:Tenascin / Q000378:metabolism
D015816:Cell Adhesion Molecules, Neuronal; D016326:Extracellular Matrix Proteins; D007797:Laminin; D009419:Nerve Tissue Proteins; D011509:Proteoglycans; D000091042:Reelin Protein; D019063:Tenascin; D012697:Serine Endopeptidases