Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 10, 2026

Isolation of Cortical Microglia with Preserved Immunophenotype and Functionality From Murine Neonates
Published on: January 30, 2014
Aggrecan protects against plaque accumulation and is essential for proper microglial responses to plaques
Rocio A Barahona1, Nellie E Kwang1, Aashna R Kono-Soosaipillai1
1Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, Charlie Dunlop School of Biological Sciences, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA.
Abstract:
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. Recent evidence implicates extracellular matrix (ECM) dysfunction in disease pathogenesis, including extensive loss of perineuronal nets (PNNs). PNNs are neuron-ensheathing condensed ECM structures composed of chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans, including the main constituent aggrecan (ACAN). To explore the role of PNNs in AD, we utilize the 5xFAD model and genetically target Acan in Nestin-expressing cells, resulting in loss of ACAN and ablation of the PNN structure. In 5xFAD mice, ACAN cKO results in increased plaque deposition, reduced plaque sphericity, and impaired microglia-plaque association. Single-cell spatial transcriptomics identifies an enhanced disease-associated microglia (DAM) phenotype in 5xFAD ACAN cKO mice, which is accompanied by decreased dystrophic neurite formation. Collectively, our data suggest that PNNs may play a crucial role in mediating the microglial response to plaques.
Related Concept Videos
Phagocytosis of Apoptotic Cells
Normal cells contain receptors that prevent them from being recognized by phagocytes.
Proteoglycans
Glycosaminoglycans
GAGS are found in the extracellular matrix of vertebrates, invertebrates, and bacteria. Due to their polar nature they attract water, and serve as excellent lubricants or shock absorbers in an animal body.
Hyaluronic...
Matrix Proteoglycans and Glycoproteins
Inflammatory Response
Inflammation can be triggered by various stimuli, such as impact, abrasion, chemical irritation, infections, and extreme hot or cold temperatures. These can damage cells and connective tissue fibers,...
Atherosclerosis I: Introduction

