Section: Research

Timothy Henion, Ph.D.

Academic Role: Research Assistant Professor

Faculty Appointment(s) In:
   Cell Biology
   Shriver Center

Glycan Function in Nervous System Development

The surface of all cells is modified by a diverse array of complex carbohydrate structures that are required for normal cell function. Many neurons in particular express unique glycans that are rarely found in other tissues, suggesting specific roles in nervous system development.  These glycoconjugates are attached to protein and lipids by specific glycosyltransferase enzymes. Recently, a number of human diseases that severely affect normal brain development have been found to  result from genetic mutations in glycosyltransferase genes. There is now strong evidence that carbohydrates influence many aspects of normal brain development, including  signaling pathways that regulate neuronal cell fate, migration, and the formation of axon connections with target tissues.

Our research specifically examines the functional role of glycosylation during sensory nervous system development. We focus mainly on the olfactory system, which is responsible for our perception of smell and the transmission of odorant information to the brain.  This region of the nervous system is unique in that the projections of neurons from the sensory periphery to the central nervous system is highly stereotyped, and continually regenerated throughout life.  This allows the function of glycoconjugates in neuronal cell fate and axon guidance to be studied in great detail.  The information obtained is also being applied to help understand glycan functions during the development of other sensory systems, including those involved in hearing and pain perception.

Notch Signaling in Olfactory Progenitor Cell Fate

Lactosamine Glycan Function in Sensory System Development

Phone: 781-642-0125
E-mail: Timothy.Henion@umassmed.edu

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