The sticky synapse: Cell adhesion molecules and their role in synapse formation and maintenance

Abstract

Over the last few years, a considerable number of different cell adhesion molecules (CAMs) have been identified that are imperative for synapse formation and maintenance. Recent research, however, has also revealed that many synaptic connections are highly dynamic and not as stable as initially thought. A delicate balance between adhesive and anti-adhesive events at the synapse suggests that CAM functions are highly regulated. Dr. Michael Hortsch and Dr. Hisashi Umemori's The Sticky Synapse: Cell Adhesion Molecules and Their Role in Synapse Formation and Maintenance presents the first comprehensive synopsis on how adhesive proteins contribute to synapse formation, function, and remodeling. Topics discussed range from general synaptic processes, such as neuromuscular junction and CNS synapse formation, to CAM-specific chapters on Cadherins, Ig-domain CAMs, Neuroligins, extracellular matrix molecules, Connexins and many others, and how these CAM families contribute specifically to synaptic functionality. The wide range of general and technical information offered in this book will appeal to students, researchers, and clinicians in the fields of molecular and cellular neuroscience, neurophysiology, and developmental neurobiology.