The Role of Perineuronal Nets in Physiology and Disease: Insights from Recent Studies
Sophia Auer, Martin Schicht, Lucas Hoffmann, Silvia Budday, Renato Frischknecht, Ingmar Blümcke, Friedrich Paulsen
Abstract
Perineuronal nets (PNNs) are specialized extracellular matrix structures that predominantly surround inhibitory neurons in the central nervous system (CNS). They have been identified as crucial regulators of synaptic plasticity and neuronal excitability. This literature review aims to summarize the current state of knowledge about PNNs, their molecular composition and structure, as well as their functional roles and involvement in neurological diseases. Furthermore, future directions in PNN research are proposed, and the therapeutic potential of targeting PNNs to develop novel treatment options for various neurological disorders is explored. This review emphasizes the importance of PNNs in CNS physiology and pathology and underscores the need for further research in this area.