Chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan

Structure of the protein core of aggrecan or chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan 1

Chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans (CSPGs) are proteoglycans consisting of a protein core and a chondroitin sulfate side chain. They are known to be structural components of a variety of human tissues, including cartilage, and also play key roles in neural development and glial scar formation. They are known to be involved in certain cell processes, such as cell adhesion, cell growth, receptor binding, cell migration, and interaction with other extracellular matrix constituents.[1] They are also known to interact with laminin, fibronectin, tenascin, and collagen.[1] CSPGs are generally secreted from cells.

Importantly, CSPGs are known to inhibit axon regeneration after spinal cord injury. CSPGs contribute to glial scar formation post injury, acting as a barrier against new axons growing into the injury site.[2] CSPGs play a crucial role in explaining why the spinal cord doesn't self-regenerate after an injury.

  1. ^ a b Rhodes, K. E.; Fawcett, J. W. (2004). "Chondroitin sulphate proteoglycans: Preventing plasticity or protecting the CNS?". Journal of Anatomy. 204 (1): 33–48. doi:10.1111/j.1469-7580.2004.00261.x. PMC 1571240. PMID 14690476.
  2. ^ Siebert, J. R.; Osterhout, D. J. (2011). "The inhibitory effects of chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans on oligodendrocytes". Journal of Neurochemistry. 119 (1): 176–188. doi:10.1111/j.1471-4159.2011.07370.x. PMID 21848846. S2CID 205623522.