Abstract
Changes in the molecular organization of the extracellular matrix are key factors in neuropathology. We investigated aggrecan-based perineuronal nets (PNs) in relation to neurodegeneration and activation of glial cells in a transgenic mouse (Tg2576) model of Alzheimer's disease. The formation of amyloid plaques in the cerebral cortex occurred independently of the area-specific distribution of PNs. Matrix components were only affected in the core of plaques in advanced stages of pathology. PNs remained unchanged in the large marginal zone occupied by reactive astrocytic processes. We conclude that the aggrecan-based extracellular matrix of PNs is not enzymatically altered in peripheral plaque territories and is only removed after neuronal death.
Copyright 2008 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Publication types
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Comparative Study
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Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
MeSH terms
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Aggrecans / genetics*
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Aggrecans / metabolism
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Alzheimer Disease / genetics
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Alzheimer Disease / metabolism
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Alzheimer Disease / pathology*
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Amyloid beta-Peptides / genetics
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Animals
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Astrocytes / metabolism
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Astrocytes / pathology
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Chondroitin Sulfate Proteoglycans / metabolism
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Disease Models, Animal
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Extracellular Matrix / genetics
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Extracellular Matrix / metabolism
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Extracellular Matrix / pathology
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Humans
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Hyaluronic Acid / deficiency
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Hyaluronic Acid / genetics
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Mice
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Mice, Inbred C57BL
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Mice, Transgenic
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Neurons / metabolism*
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Neurons / pathology*
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Plaque, Amyloid / genetics
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Plaque, Amyloid / metabolism
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Plaque, Amyloid / pathology
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Substrate Specificity / genetics
Substances
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Aggrecans
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Amyloid beta-Peptides
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Chondroitin Sulfate Proteoglycans
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Hyaluronic Acid