Myelin basic protein

Myelin Basic Protein (MBP) is a protein believed to be essential in the process of myelination of nerves in the nervous system. The myelin sheath is a layer that surrounds the axon of a neuron and allows for efficient conduction of electrical impulses. MBP is one of the most abundant proteins in the myelin sheath of the vertebrate nervous system.

Structure

MBP is a relatively small protein, with a molecular weight of about 18.5 kDa. It is rich in positively charged amino acids, particularly arginine and lysine. This positive charge is believed to be important for the protein's interaction with the negatively charged lipids in the myelin membrane.

Function

The primary function of MBP is to maintain the structural integrity of the myelin sheath. It is thought to do this by cross-linking the cytosolic faces of the myelin sheath, effectively "stitching" the layers of the sheath together. This cross-linking is believed to be crucial for the stability and function of the myelin sheath.

In addition to its structural role, MBP may also play a role in the signaling pathways of the neuron. Some studies have suggested that MBP can interact with the cytoskeleton of the neuron, potentially influencing the neuron's ability to send signals.

Clinical significance

Alterations in the structure or function of MBP can lead to a number of neurological disorders. The most well-known of these is Multiple Sclerosis (MS), a disease in which the immune system attacks the myelin sheath, leading to a loss of nerve function. In MS, it is thought that MBP is one of the primary targets of the immune attack.

Other diseases associated with MBP include Leukodystrophy, a group of rare genetic disorders that affect the growth or maintenance of the myelin sheath, and Schizophrenia, where some studies have suggested a potential link between alterations in MBP and the development of the disease.

See also

• Myelin
• Multiple Sclerosis
• Leukodystrophy
• Schizophrenia