A role for fucose alpha(1-2) galactose carbohydrates in neuronal growth

J Am Chem Soc. 2005 Feb 9;127(5):1340-1. doi: 10.1021/ja044631v.

Abstract

We report a fucose alpha(1-2) galactose-mediated pathway for the modulation of neuronal growth and morphology. Our studies provide strong evidence for the presence of Fucalpha(1-2)Gal glycoproteins and lectin receptors in hippocampal neurons. Additionally, we show that manipulation of Fucalpha(1-2)Gal-associated proteins using small-molecule and lectin probes induces dramatic changes in neuronal morphology. These findings may provide a novel pathway to stimulate neuronal growth and regeneration.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Biotin / chemistry
  • Disaccharides / metabolism
  • Epitopes
  • Fucose / metabolism
  • Fucose / physiology*
  • Galactose / metabolism
  • Galactose / physiology*
  • Hippocampus / cytology
  • Humans
  • Lectins / metabolism
  • Lectins / pharmacology
  • Neurites / drug effects
  • Neurites / metabolism
  • Neurites / physiology
  • Neurons / cytology*
  • Neurons / drug effects
  • Neurons / metabolism
  • Receptors, Mitogen / metabolism

Substances

  • Disaccharides
  • Epitopes
  • Lectins
  • Receptors, Mitogen
  • Fucose
  • Biotin
  • Galactose