SynCAM 1 participates in axo-dendritic contact assembly and shapes neuronal growth cones.

ABSTRACT: Neuronal growth cones are highly motile structures that tip developing neurites and explore their surroundings before axo-dendritic contact and synaptogenesis. However, the membrane proteins organizing these processes remain insufficiently understood. Here we identify that the synaptic cell adhesion molecule 1 (SynCAM 1), an immunoglobulin superfamily member, is already expressed in developing neurons and localizes to their growth cones. Upon interaction of growth cones with target neurites, SynCAM 1 rapidly assembles at these contacts to form stable adhesive clusters. Synaptic markers can also be detected at these sites. Addressing the functions of SynCAM 1 in growth cones preceding contact, we determine that it is required and sufficient to restrict the number of active filopodia. Furthe

SUBMITTER: Stagi M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2867738 | biostudies-literature | 2010 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature