Abstract
Rabies is a viral infection that targets the nervous system, specifically neurons. The clinical manifestations of the disease are dramatic and their outcome fatal; paradoxically, conventional histopathological descriptions reveal only subtle changes in the affected nervous tissue. Some researchers have considered that the pathophysiology of rabies is based more on biochemical changes than on structural alterations, as is the case with some psychiatric diseases. However, we believe that it has been necessary to resort to other methods that allow us to analyze the effect of the infection on neurons. The Golgi technique is the gold standard for studying the morphology of all the components of a neuron and the cytoskeletal proteins are the structural support of dendrites and axons. We have previously shown, in the mouse cerebral cortex and now with this work in spinal cord, that rabies virus generates remarkable alterations in the morphological pattern of the neurons and that this effect is associated with the increase in the expression of two cytoskeletal proteins (MAP2 and NF-H). It is necessary to deepen the investigation of the pathogenesis of rabies in order to find therapeutic alternatives to a disease to which the World Health Organization classifies as a neglected disease.
Highlights
The cytoskeleton helps maintain the form and internal organization of cells
MAP2 is responsible for maintaining the stability and increasing the rigidity
NF-H form lateral extension that increases the spacing between NFs, maximizing of fine microtubules as well as inhibiting polymerization and modulating neuritethus generation
Summary
It provides mechanical support that allows cells to perform essential functions such as division and movement. It is composed of three structural complexes: microtubules (MT), neurofilaments (NF), and microfilaments (MF) [1]. Isoforms from the MAP2 family (MAP2A and MAP2B) are expressed exclusively in mature neurons; they are involved in the stabilization and strengthening of the rigidity of microtubules, inhibition of polymerization, and modulation of neurite development [3]. NF-H (heavy) is expressed when radial axon growth is required for development of the nervous system [4]. Its function is fundamentally structural; it is involved in radial axonal growth during development, maintaining axonal caliber and the speed of nerve conduction [5]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary 
Published Version (
Free)
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call