Targeting the Hyaluronan-Based Extracellular Matrix to Reverse Neurodegenerative Disease
| Dates: | 7 March 2019 |
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| Times: | 13:00 - 14:00 |
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| What is it: | Seminar |
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| Organiser: | Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health |
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| Who is it for: | University staff, Current University students |
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| Speaker: | Larry Sherman |
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The glycosaminoglycan hyaluronan (HA) is elevated in the central nervous system (CNS) following a number of insults including neurodegenerative diseases. We have found that this HA is digested into fragments in damaged CNS tissues through the actions of hyaluronidases. These fragments signal in neural progenitor cell populations through a non-canonical toll-like receptor 4 pathway that alters both neuronal and glial cell gene transcription. Increased hyaluronidase activity in the hippocampus leads to alterations in adult neurogenesis and cognitive function, while in white matter, hyaluronidase activity blocks the maturation of progenitors involved in nervous system repair. We recently identified novel hyaluronidase inhibitors and demonstrated that these agents can promote nervous system repair in models of human neurodegenerative diseases. These agents are now being tested in pre-clinical trials.
Speaker
Larry Sherman
Role: Professor
Organisation: Oregon Health and Science University
Travel and Contact Information
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Lecture Theatre
Michael Smith Building
Manchester
