Disruption of neurovascular unit prior to motor neuron degeneration in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
J Neurosci Res
; 89(5): 718-28, 2011 May.
Article
en En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-21337372
ABSTRACT
Recent reports suggest that functional or structural defect of vascular components are implicated in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) pathology. In the present study, we examined a possible change of the neurovascular unit consisting of endothelium (PCAM-1), tight junction (occludin), and basement membrane (collagen IV) in relation to a possible activation of MMP-9 in ALS patients and ALS model mice. We found that the damage in the neurovascular unit was more prominent in the outer side and preferentially in the anterior horn of ALS model mice. This damage occurred prior to motor neuron degeneration and was accompanied by MMP-9 up-regulation. We also found the dissociation between the PCAM-1-positive endothelium and GFAP-positive astrocyte foot processes in both humans and the animal model of ALS. The present results indicate that perivascular damage precedes the sequential changes of the disease, which are held in common between humans and the animal model of ALS, suggesting that the neurovascular unit is a potential target for therapeutic intervention in ALS.
Texto completo:
1
Colección:
01-internacional
Banco de datos:
MEDLINE
Asunto principal:
Médula Espinal
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Barrera Hematoencefálica
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Células Endoteliales
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Esclerosis Amiotrófica Lateral
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Neuronas Motoras
Límite:
Animals
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Female
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Humans
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Male
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Middle aged
Idioma:
En
Revista:
J Neurosci Res
Año:
2011
Tipo del documento:
Article
País de afiliación:
Japón