Chondroitin Sulfate Proteoglycan (CSPG)

Chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans (CSPGs) are a family of extracellular matrix molecules composed of a core protein covalently attached to one or more chondroitin sulfate glycosaminoglycan (GAG) side chains. They are widely distributed in various tissues, including cartilage and the central nervous system, where they play structural and regulatory roles. Major subtypes include Aggrecan, Versican, Neurocan, NG2, Brevican, and Phosphacan. CSPGs are implicated in diverse processes such as cell adhesion, migration, axon guidance, and glial scar formation, making them relevant to CNS injury, neuropsychiatric disorders, and neurodegenerative diseases. Functional activities are primarily attributed to the chondroitin sulfate moieties.

Enzymatic digestion of chondroitin sulfate GAG chains to reduce inhibitory barriers.