Nogo A

Nogo A is a protein that has been identified as an inhibitor of neurite outgrowth specific to the central nervous system. Research suggests that blocking Nogo-A during neuronal damage (from diseases such as Multiple Sclerosis) will help to protect or restore the damaged neurons (Karnezis et al, 2004).

Additional recommended knowledge

Don't let static charges disrupt your weighing accuracy

What is the Correct Way to Check Repeatability in Balances?

How to ensure accurate weighing results every day?

The Nogo gene contains the isoforms Nogo A, B and C. Nogo-A has an amino group at one terminus ('amino-Nogo'), and all Nogo proteins have a carboxy group at the other terminus ('Nogo-66'). Both amino-Nogo and Nogo-66 are involved in inhibitory responses, where amino-Nogo is a strong inhibitor of neurite outgrowth, and Nogo-66 is involved in growth cone destruction (Karnezis et al, 2004).

Potential Uses

The investigation into the mechanisms of this protein presents a great potential for the treatment of auto-immune mediated demyelinating diseases and spinal cord injury regeneration.

References

Karnezis et al (2004) The neurite outgrowth inhibitor Nogo A is involved in autoimmune-mediated demyelination. Nature Neuroscience, 7, 736-744