The CNS/PNS Extracellular Matrix Provides Instructive Guidance Cues to Neural Cells and Neuroregulatory Proteins in Neural Development and Repair

Background. The extracellular matrix of the PNS/CNS is unusual in that it dominated by glycosaminoglycans, especially hyaluronan, whose space filling and hydrating properties make essential contributions to functional this tissue. Hyaluronan has a relatively simple structure but its space-filling ensure micro-compartments are maintained brain ultrastructure, ensuring ionic niches gradients for optimal cellular function. cell-instructive, anti-inflammatory forms macro-molecular aggregates with lectican CS-proteoglycans, forming dense protective perineuronal net structures provide neural synaptic plasticity support cognitive learning. Aims. To highlight central nervous system/peripheral system (CNS/PNS) diverse cell-associated proteoglycans have cell-instructive regulating repair processes recovery through interactions cell adhesive molecules, receptors neuroregulatory proteins. Despite general lack stabilising fibrillar collagenous elastic CNS/PNS, sophisticated dynamic nevertheless important tissue form Conclusions. This review provides examples sophistication CNS/PNS matrix, showing how maintains homeostasis regulates regeneration.