Nectin-like molecules/SynCAMs are required for post-crossing commissural axon guidance

Development. 2010 Feb;137(3):427-35. doi: 10.1242/dev.042515. Epub 2010 Jan 7.

Abstract

The Necl/SynCAM subgroup of immunoglobulin superfamily cell adhesion molecules has been implicated in late stages of neural circuit formation. They were shown to be sufficient for synaptogenesis by their trans-synaptic interactions. Additionally, they are involved in myelination, both in the central and the peripheral nervous system, by mediating adhesion between glia cells and axons. Here, we show that Necls/SynCAMs are also required for early stages of neural circuit formation. We demonstrate a role for Necls/SynCAMs in post-crossing commissural axon guidance in the developing spinal cord in vivo. Necl3/SynCAM2, the family member that has not been characterized functionally so far, plays a crucial role in this process. It is expressed by floorplate cells and interacts with Necls/SynCAMs expressed by commissural axons to mediate a turning response in post-crossing commissural axons.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Axons / physiology*
  • Cell Adhesion Molecules / metabolism
  • Cell Adhesion Molecules, Neuronal / metabolism
  • Cell Adhesion Molecules, Neuronal / physiology*
  • Chick Embryo
  • Nectins
  • Nerve Fibers, Myelinated
  • Neurogenesis
  • Spinal Cord / embryology
  • Spinal Cord / physiology

Substances

  • Cell Adhesion Molecules
  • Cell Adhesion Molecules, Neuronal
  • Nectins