Dynein interacts with the neural cell adhesion molecule (NCAM180) to tether dynamic microtubules and maintain synaptic density in cortical neurons

Abstract

Background: Dynein is a microtubule motor that can also tether dynamic microtubule plus-ends. Results: Neural cell adhesion molecule isoform-180 (NCAM180) binds directly to dynein, facilitating microtubule tethering at the cortex and enhancing cell-cell adhesion and synaptic density. Conclusion: The dynein-NCAM180 interaction contributes to the maintenance of synaptic density in cortical neurons. Significance: Dynein functions as both microtubule motor and microtubule tether in neurons. © 2013 by The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.