Distinct Spatio-Temporal Extracellular Matrix Accumulation within Demyelinated Spinal Cord Lesions in Theiler’s Murine Encephalomyelitis

This study examines changes in the extracellular matrix (ECM) within spinal cord lesions in mice infected with Theiler’s murine encephalomyelitis virus (TMEV), a model for multiple sclerosis. The research aims to understand how these ECM changes contribute to the failure of nerve regeneration in demyelinating conditions, focusing on the types and locations of ECM molecules that accumulate over time. The findings suggest that the accumulation of ECM, particularly collagens and proteoglycans, may hinder the remyelination process, offering insights into potential therapeutic targets for MS.

• 1
  Progressive accumulation of chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans, glycoproteins, and collagens occurred within demyelinated TME lesions, paralleling astrogliosis development.
• 2
  Deposition of collagen IV, laminin, perlecan, and tenascin-C started at 28 days post-infection, while collagen I, decorin, entactin, and neurocan accumulated from 56 days post-infection.
• 3
  Phosphacan expression progressively decreased during TME, suggesting a unique role in the disease process compared to other ECM components.