Chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans (CSPGs), one of the major extracellular matrix components glial scar that surrounds central nervous system (CNS) injuries, are known to inhibit regeneration neurons. This study investigated whether pleiotrophin (PTN), a growth factor upregulated during early CNS development, can overcome inhibition mediated by CSPGs and promote neurite outgrowth neurons in vitr...

linear and cord-like burn scar contractures are commonly treated by severing the scar in a transverse direction and skin grafting or performing z-plasties. however, skin grafts may result in suboptimal take and contract gradually and the z-plasty requires undermining flaps in scarred skin which may lead to the distal tip necrosis. in this article the authors present their experience with multip...

The role traditionally assigned to astrocytes in the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis (MS) lesions has been the formation of the glial scar once inflammation has subsided. Astrocytes are now recognized to be early and highly active players during lesion formation and key for providing peripheral immune cells access to the central nervous system. Here, we review the role of astrocytes in the f...

The use of genetically modified mice to study axon regeneration after spinal cord injury has served as a useful in vivo model for both loss-of-function and gain-of-function analysis of candidate proteins. This review discusses the impact of genetically modified mice on axon regeneration after spinal cord injury in the context of axon growth inhibition by myelin, the glial scar, and chemorepelle...

Both neurons and glia throughout the central nervous system are organized into networks by gap junctions. Among glia, gap junctions facilitate metabolic homeostasis and intercellular communication. Among neurons, gap junctions form electrical synapses that function primarily for communication. However, in neurodegenerative states due to disease or injury gap junctions may be detrimental to surv...