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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Feb 28, 2026

Evisceration of Mouse Vitreous and Retina for Proteomic Analyses

Evisceration of Mouse Vitreous and Retina for Proteomic Analyses

Published on: April 3, 2011

Structure and Function of Ocular Proteoglycans: Essential Proteins for Vision.

James Melrose^1,2

¹Raymond Purves Bone and Joint Laboratory, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, The University of Sydney at Royal North Shore Hospital, Northern Sydney Local Health District, St. Leonards, Sydney, NSW 2065, Australia.

International Journal of Molecular Sciences

|February 27, 2026

Summary

Ocular proteoglycans (PGs) are vital for eye structure and function, stabilizing tissues and enabling synaptic communication for effective visual processing. Their diverse roles highlight their importance in maintaining overall eye health and vision.

Keywords:

SLRPs eyes-shut hyaluronan lecticans neurexin pikachurin synapse vision

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Sample Preparation for Mass-spectrometry-based Proteomics Analysis of Ocular Microvessels

Sample Preparation for Mass-spectrometry-based Proteomics Analysis of Ocular Microvessels

Published on: February 22, 2019

Area of Science:

Ophthalmology
Molecular Biology
Biochemistry

Background:

The eye is a complex sensory organ requiring intricate tissue coordination.
Proteoglycans (PGs) are crucial molecules involved in intercellular communication and tissue maintenance within the eye.

Purpose of the Study:

To review the structure and functions of ocular proteoglycans (PGs) in visual processing.
To highlight the role of PGs in maintaining ocular tissue stability, synaptic function, and overall visual effectiveness.

Main Methods:

Narrative review of existing literature on ocular proteoglycans.
Analysis of the documented roles of various PG classes (e.g., heparan sulfate, chondroitin sulfate, keratan sulfate, SLRPs) in ocular tissues.

Main Results:

PGs like SPACRCAN and hyaluronan protect photoreceptors.
Specialized PGs (pikachurin, eyes-shut, neurexin family) stabilize synapses, ensuring plasticity and rapid signal transmission.
Diverse PGs contribute to tissue stability, corneal transparency, and nutrition of avascular regions.

Conclusions:

Ocular proteoglycans are essential for maintaining the structural integrity and functional capacity of the eye.
The diverse functions of PGs underscore their critical contribution to effective visual processing and eye health.