Axonin1

Axonin-1 is a neuronal cell adhesion molecule of the immunoglobulin superfamily. It is expressed on the surface of developing neurons and growth cones in vertebrates, where it participates in the adhesive interactions that influence axon pathfinding and fasciculation.

During neural development, Axonin-1 mediates selective adhesion between navigating axons and their substrates or neighboring axons. Through these interactions, it contributes to the organization of growing tracts and to the guidance decisions that steer axons toward their targets. The molecule is typically enriched in regions of active axon extension and tends to be downregulated as neurons mature.

Axonin-1 participates in both homophilic and heterophilic interactions with other cell surface molecules, and its function is often considered in the broader context of guidance cue networks that regulate growth cone dynamics. Its activity is understood to work in concert with other adhesion molecules and extracellular cues to shape the trajectory of developing neurons.

Experimental disruption of Axonin-1 function in model systems has been shown to affect axon fasciculation and tract formation, supporting a role in proper neural wiring during development. While most research on Axonin-1 has focused on developmental biology, there is no well-established link to human disease; the molecule is primarily characterized for its contributions to early neural circuit formation.

In summary, Axonin-1 is a developmentally important neural adhesion molecule that supports axon guidance and fasciculation through adhesive interactions in the vertebrate nervous system.