Topic: PNN-derived glycans

Transmission of misfolded α-synuclein between neurons is a key mechanistic feature of Parkinson’s and in the creation of Lewy pathology. Despite the prion-like nature of Parkinson’s, it is not yet known why some cell populations are resistant to pathology development. We hypothesise that an extracellular neuronal coat, the perineuronal net (PNN), could be a factor underlying neuronal resistance in Parkinson’s. A proteomic screen of extracellular brain lysate with PNN-derived glycans identified the entire synuclein family. Using surface plasmon resonance, the PNN glycans, heparin sulfate &