Synaptic Formation Molecules

Question 1

N-cadherin

Answer 1

found in both pre- and postsynaptic terminals
forms strong adhesion across the synapse
without them, presynaptic markers and postsynaptic scaffold proteins are disturbed

Question 2

protocadherins

Answer 2

primarily expressed in the nervous system
have weak adhesive properties
requires calcium to function properly

Question 3

synaptic cell adhesion molecules (synCAMs)

Answer 3

at least 4 types in mammals

SynCAM1 is the best-studied

Question 4

SALM1

Answer 4

overexpression leads to neurite outgrowth of young neurons, co-clusters with PSD-95

Question 5

neurexins/neuroligins

Answer 5

calcium-dependent cell adhesion molecules

induce the formation of excitatory and inhibitory synapses

Question 6

agrin

Answer 6

synthesized by NMJ neurons

required for the maintenance of the synapse

Question 7

MuSK

Answer 7

receptor tyrosine kinase specific for muscle cells

required for AChR clustering, which is necessary for synapse formation

Question 8

Lrp4

Answer 8

agrin co-receptor
necessary for agrin-induced MuSK activation and AChR clustering
Lrp4 couples agrin to MuSK activation

Question 9

Dok7

Answer 9

essential for in vivo neuromuscular synaptogenesis

phosphorylation by Lrp4 is required for its activation

Question 10

rapsyn

Answer 10

membrane-associated cytoplasmic protein

without it, AChR clustering doesn’t occur