Enzyme Inhibitors of Cell-Surface Carbohydrates: Insects as Model Systems for Neuronal Development and Repair Mechanisms
Abstract
Glycosphingolipids (GSLs) are fundamental components of all organisms, yet their functions remain largely unknown. In addition to immunological functions, these molecules regulate the social behavior' of cells, including the cellular development of the nervous system, oncological transformation and metastasis. Some GSLs may be useful in the treatment of neurological disorders, including peripheral nerve injury as well as central neuropathies. The glucosyl ceramide synthase inhibitor (1R, 2R) - (+) - 1-pheny1-2-decanoylamino-3-morpholino-1-propanol (PDMP), has been shown to be a useful lead compound for the disruption of GSL expression to examine the effect of an altered GSL ensemble on nerve cell development. Despite their low phylogenetic status, insect nerve cells mimic the complexity displayed by the much more complicated human brain and nervous system to an amazing degree. The insect Manduca sexta provides a simplified developmental model which will allow examination of the effects of the PDMP analogs. An important aspect is the isolation and identification of the insect GSLs, so that the GSL expression can be correlated with neuronal development to unravel important structure-function relationships of GSLs. Insights from this insect model will facilitate the design and synthesis of new drugs to promote the rapid healing of diverse injuries and treatment of neuronal defects.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 2001
- Accession Number
- ADA397723
Entities
People
- Robin Polt
Organizations
- University of Arizona