Click chemistry to reveal how neurons and glia shape perineuronal nets

细胞外基质（ECM）及其神经元周围网（它们是网状结构，具有包裹神经元的孔）在很大程度上未被探索，尽管它们占大脑总体积的20%，并且被认为参与许多脑功能。有趣的是，ECM的消化改善了学习和记忆，但一旦ECM重组，赤字就会恢复。然而，这种ECM重塑如何在细胞类型水平上组织尚不清楚。在这里，我们的目标是缩小这一知识差距，使用尖端技术，包括生物结合和超声介导的货物输送。总之，该项目旨在促进对神经元功能中这一主要脑区室的更深入了解。

The extracellular matrix (ECM) and its perineuronal nets (which are net-like structures with holes wrapped around neurons) are largely underexplored, despite representing a remarkable 20% of the brain’s total volume and having been suggested to be involved in many brain functions. Interestingly, digestion of the ECM improves learning and memory, but deficits return once the ECM has reformed. However, how this ECM remodelling is organised at a cell-type level is not understood. Here we aim to close this knowledge gap, using cutting-edge technology including bioconjugation and ultrasound-mediated cargo delivery. Together, this project aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of this major brain compartment in neuronal function.