Chondroitin sulfate: A key molecule in the brain matrix

• Published in: The international journal of biochemistry & cell biology Vol. 44; no. 4; pp. 582 - 586
• Main Authors: Kwok, J.C.F., Warren, P., Fawcett, J.W.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Netherlands Elsevier Ltd 01.04.2012
• Subjects: Animals; binding properties; biochemical pathways; brain; Brain - metabolism; Brain - physiology; Brain Injuries - metabolism; Brain Injuries - physiopathology; Central nervous system; Chondroitin sulfate; Chondroitin Sulfates - biosynthesis; Chondroitin Sulfates - chemistry; Chondroitin Sulfates - metabolism; extracellular matrix; Gene Expression Regulation; glucuronic acid; Humans; neurodevelopment; Neuronal Plasticity; Plasticity; proteoglycans; Regeneration; Spinal Cord Injuries - metabolism; Spinal Cord Injuries - physiopathology; Regeneration; Chondroitin sulfate; Plasticity; Central nervous system

Chondroitin sulfate is a glycosaminoglycan composed of N-acetylgalactosamine and glucuronic acid. It attaches to a core protein to form chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan (CSPG). Being a major component of the brain extracellular matrix, CSPGs are involved in neural development, axon pathfinding and g...