NDEL1

NDEL1, also known as NDE1, is a protein encoded by the NDEL1 gene. This gene is found on chromosome 19 in humans. NDEL1 plays a crucial role in neuronal development, particularly in the process of neurogenesis, which is the formation of new neurons. It is also involved in neuronal migration, the movement of newly formed neurons to their correct positions in the developing brain.

The NDEL1 protein is known to interact with other proteins involved in cell division and cytoskeletal organization. One of its key functions is regulating the cell cycle, ensuring that cells divide correctly. It also influences the dynamics of microtubules, which are essential components of the cell's internal structure and are involved in transport and cell shape.

Dysregulation of NDEL1 has been linked to various neurological and psychiatric disorders. Mutations or altered expression levels of NDEL1 have been observed in conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and microcephaly, a condition characterized by a smaller than normal head size. Research suggests that impaired NDEL1 function can disrupt the delicate processes of neuronal development, leading to these associated pathologies. Ongoing studies continue to explore the precise mechanisms by which NDEL1 exerts its effects and its potential as a therapeutic target for neurological diseases.