The most impressive structural feature of the nervous system is the specificity of its synaptic
connections. Even after axons have navigated long distances to reach target areas, they …

Synapses are asymmetric intercellular junctions that mediate neuronal communication. The
number, type, and connectivity patterns of synapses determine the formation, maintenance …

Development of a functional neuronal network during embryogenesis begins with pioneer
axons creating a scaffold along which later-outgrowing axons extend. The molecular …

Rapid neurotransmission depends on the structural and functional integrity of synaptic
connections. How synapses assemble is currently being intensely investigated to help our …

Cell-adhesion molecules of the immunoglobulin superfamily play critical roles in brain
development, as well as in maintaining synaptic plasticity, the dysfunction of which is known …

Summary SYG-1 and SYG-2 are multipurpose cell adhesion molecules (CAMs) that have
evolved across all major animal taxa to participate in diverse physiological functions …

Observations of hereditary glomerular disease support the contention that podocyte
intercellular junction proteins are essential for junction formation and maintenance. Genetic …

Topographic maps, which maintain the spatial order of neurons in the order of their axonal
connections, are found in many parts of the nervous system. Here, we focus on the …

Mutations of the immunoglobulin superfamily proteins nephrin and Neph1 lead to congenital
nephrotic syndrome in humans or mice. Neph proteins are three closely related molecules …

During development, neurites and synapses segregate into specific neighborhoods or
layers within nerve bundles. The developmental programs guiding placement of neurites in …