We have discovered that a purified cell adhesion molecule, the 8D9-antigen can serve as a potent substrate for neurite growth in vitro. The 8D9-antigen is similar or identical to NILE, L1 and Ng- CAM. Using a novel in vitro assay it is now possible to further characterize the biochemical properties of the 8D9-antigen as well as begin a rational search for the 8D9-receptor. It has been demonstrated that this class of cell adhesion molecule is present during development of the nervous system but disappears in many parts of the mature nervous system. It is also known that it reappears in the regenerating peripheral nervous system. This suggests that the 8D9-antigen may serve a permissive, if not essential, role in regeneration of axon pathways. Therefore, we propose to investigate the use of this molecule as a substrate for promoting regeneration in the peripheral and central nervous systems.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS)
Type
Research Project (R01)
Project #
5R01NS025543-03
Application #
3410792
Study Section
Neurology C Study Section (NEUC)
Project Start
1988-02-01
Project End
1992-01-31
Budget Start
1990-02-01
Budget End
1992-01-31
Support Year
3
Fiscal Year
1990
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
University of Pittsburgh
Department
Type
Schools of Medicine
DUNS #
053785812
City
Pittsburgh
State
PA
Country
United States
Zip Code
15213