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Updated: Jul 4, 2026
10:36
In Vitro Assays to Assess Blood-brain Barrier Mesh-like Vessel Formation and Disruption
Published on: June 20, 2017
The normal cellular prion protein and its possible role in angiogenesis
Marta Turu1, Mark Slevin, Priya Ethirajan
1Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Bellvitge, Fundacio IDIBELL, Barcelona, Spain.
Summary
Cellular Prion Protein (PrPc) is crucial for cell survival and plays a key role in angiogenesis, particularly in the brain. This review highlights PrPc
Area of Science:
- Cellular Biology
- Neuroscience
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Cellular Prion Protein (PrPc) is a glycoprotein found on endothelial cells and neurons.
- PrPc is involved in cell survival, differentiation, and angiogenesis.
- Expression of PrPc is upregulated in ischemic brain regions following stroke.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the diverse functions of Cellular Prion Protein (PrPc).
- To emphasize the recently identified role of PrPc in angiogenesis.
- To explore PrPc's involvement in neuroprotection and the immune response.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing scientific literature and studies.
- Analysis of PrPc expression in endothelial cells and brain microvessels.
- Investigation of signaling pathways, such as ERK, involved in PrPc regulation.
Main Results:
- PrPc expression is transiently observed in neonatal brain endothelial cells.
- Ischemia/hypoxia induces PrPc expression via ERK activation.
- PrPc exhibits protective effects against oxidative stress and apoptosis.
Conclusions:
- PrPc plays a significant role in angiogenic responses.
- PrPc is implicated in cellular functions within the central nervous system.
- PrPc's multifaceted roles extend to copper metabolism and immune response.
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