The Modis Lab Research

AceES-2 Structure _________

SynCAMs connect the pre- and postsynaptic membranes and organize developing synapses. Shown here are models of two SynCAM trans-dimers bridging the synaptic membranes. These models of SynCAM2 homodimer (left) and a SynCAM1/SynCAM2 heterodimer (right) are both based directly on the crystal structure and crystal packing of the SynCAM2 Ig1 domain. The strength of the trans-synaptic interaction is modulated by N-glycans (red, brown). N-glycans may reduce SynCAM 2 adhesion through steric hindrance within the Ig1 binding interface. In contrast, N-glycans facing away from the SynCAM 1 Ig1 domain may restrict its conformational freedom and position it towards binding.

Adam I. Fogel, Yue Li, Qing Wang, TuKiet T. Lam, Yorgo Modis & Thomas Biederer (2010). N-glycosylation at the SynCAM (synaptic cell adhesion molecule) immunoglobulin interface modulates synaptic adhesion. J. Biol. Chem., 285, 34864-74.