Cell Markers in Neuroscience

 

Cell markers are molecules that are used to identify and classify cells. In the field of neuroscience, research on the brain and nervous system often requires examination of different cell types, including neurons, astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and microglia. Here, we discuss the different types of cells of the nervous system and common markers to identify these cells.

Neurons

Neurons are one of the two major cell types of the central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral nervous system (PNS). They are responsible for communication, allowing us to think, talk, breathe, move, and so much more. Neurons communicate through the transmission and receiving of electrical impulses and neurochemical signals (neurotransmitters) to process information. They are composed of three main parts: the cell body, dendrites, and axon. The cell body is responsible for the functioning of the cell, the dendrites receive information from other neurons, and the axons transmit information.

Common neuron-specific intracellular protein markers used in research include neuronal nuclear protein and βIII-tubulin:

Neuronal Nuclear Protein

Neuronal nuclear protein, or NeuN, is a protein exclusive to neurons. This protein, found in both the nucleus and cytoplasm, functions as a regulatory protein. In research, scientists use NeuN antibodies to study stem cell differentiation. In histopathology, scientists are using this biomarker in cancer diagnosis. To see our NeuN products, click here.

βIII-tubulin

βIII-tubulin is a microtubule protein encoded by the gene TUBB3. This protein plays an important role in a number of processes, including neurogenesis and the regrowth of axons and dendrites after injury. βIII-tubulin is used as a biomarker in neuronal cell differentiation. It is also used in identification of neurological disorders, as a mutation in this protein has been linked to conditions such as MCD, which can cause epilepsy, cerebral palsy, and developmental delays. To see our βIII-tubulin products, click here.

Astrocytes

Astrocytes are the most prevalent type of glial cell in the CNS and are found in both the brain and spinal cord. In the nervous system, astrocytes play an important role in homeostasis, the control of blood flow, synaptic regulation, and neurogenesis. Loss or abnormalities in astrocyte function have been implicated in a variety of neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease, Huntington's disease, and Parkinson’s disease. Glial fibrillary acidic protein is one of the most common astrocyte cell markers.

Glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP)

GFAP is an intermediate filament III protein that plays an important role in cytoskeleton structure, helping to maintain cytoskeleton strength and the shape of cells. Increased levels of GFAP can indicate injurious or neurodegenerative conditions, including traumatic brain injury, Parkinson’s disease, and Alzheimer’s disease. To see our GFAP products, click here.

Microglia

Microglia are a type of glial cell that serve as macrophages in the brain. Microglia help to maintain homeostasis in the brain by removing harmful substances, such as dead cells and microbes. Microglia also help to regulate inflammation. Ionized calcium binding adaptor molecule 1 (Iba1) is a common marker for microglia.

Ionized calcium binding adaptor molecule 1 (Iba1)

Iba1 is a protein that plays a role in cytoskeleton structure during phagocytosis and movement. This neuromarker can be used to identify tumors with a monocytic origin and in identifying histiocytic disorders. To see our Iba1 products, click here.

Oligodendrocytes

Oligodendrocytes are a type of glial cell that produces myelin. Myelin, which form the myelin sheaths that surround axons, insulate axons and play an important role in the strength and speed of electrical message transmission. Demyelination, or the breakdown of myelin, has been associated with numerous conditions, the most well known being multiple sclerosis. There are multiple biomarkers associated with myelin proteins, including myelin-oligodendrocyte glycoprotein, myelin-associated glycoprotein, and myelin basic protein.

Myelin-oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG)

MOG is a glycoprotein that is found on the surface of myelin and oligodendrocyte plasma membranes. MOG is thought to play a role in the stability of oligodendrocyte microtubules and in the structure of the myelin sheaths. It is often used in immune system research with respect to the nervous system. To see our MOG products, click here.

Myelin-associated glycoprotein (MAG)

MAG is a transmembrane glycoprotein with 2 isoforms - S-MAG (67kDa) and L-MAG (72kda). MAG functions in the myelination as well as the differentiation and maintenance of oligodendrocytes. To see our MAG products, click here.

Myelin Basic Protein (MBP)

MBP makes up approximately 30% of the protein found in myelin in the CNS. It is an intrinsically disordered protein, meaning it can take on different conformational shapes. MBP is thought to be a multifunctional protein, involved in structure and signaling. To see our MBP products, click here.