title: Extracellular matrix and perineuronal nets in CNS repair.
abstract: A perineuronal net (PNN) is a layer of lattice-like matrix which enwraps the surface of the soma and dendrites, and in some cases the axon initial segments, in sub-populations of neurons in the central nervous system (CNS). First reported by Camillo Golgi more than a century ago, the molecular structure and the potential role of this matrix have only been unraveled in the last few decades. PNNs are mainly composed of hyaluronan, chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans, link proteins, and tenascin R. The interactions between these molecules allow the formation of a stable pericellular complex surrounding synapses on the neuronal surface. PNNs appear late in development co-incident with the closure of critical periods for plasticity. They play a direct role in the control of CNS plasticity, and their removal is one way in which plasticity can be re-activated in the adult CNS. In this review, we examine the molecular components and formation of PNNs, their role in maturation and synaptic plasticity after CNS injury, and the possible mechanisms of PNN action.
authors: Cambridge Centre for Brain Repair, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0PY, United Kingdom.
authors: Jessica C F
authors: JC
authors: Kwok
authors: Gunnar
authors: G
authors: Dick
authors: Difei
authors: D
authors: Wang
authors: James W
authors: JW
authors: Fawcett
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D002490:Central Nervous System / Q000737:chemistry / Q000166:cytology / Q000502:physiology*; D005109:Extracellular Matrix / Q000737:chemistry / Q000502:physiology*; D016326:Extracellular Matrix Proteins / Q000737:chemistry / Q000502:physiology; D006801:Humans; D009416:Nerve Regeneration / Q000502:physiology*; D009473:Neuronal Plasticity / Q000502:physiology; D009474:Neurons / Q000737:chemistry / Q000166:cytology / Q000502:physiology*; D011956:Receptors, Cell Surface / Q000737:chemistry / Q000502:physiology
chemical_list: D016326:Extracellular Matrix Proteins; D011956:Receptors, Cell Surface; C052131:extracellular matrix receptor