Extracellular matrix (ECM)-associated glycans in established epilepsy

 

 

 

SE induces changes in expression of numerous ECM molecules and ECM degrading proteases, which results in degradation of hyaluronic acid and aggrecan-rich ECM of perineuronal nets associated with fast-spiking interneurons. Our data show that enzymatic removal of hyaluronic acid or heparan sulfates leads to epileptiform activity. Also degradation of chondroitin sulfates enables developmental plasticity and rearrangement of neural networks and thus may be a key event for formation of hyperexcitable networks. In this project, we aim: (1) To determine if a transient ECM removal after epilepsy is established would induce neuroplasticity and resetting normal neural network activity by “entrainment” with the use of conventional AEDs, pharmaco- or optogenetic treatments.

 

 

Supervisor / co-supervisor: Dr. Alexander Dityatev/Dr. Oleg Senkov or someone with similar expertise.