NEAT1

NEAT1, also known as Neuroepithelial Adhesion Molecule 1, is a protein encoded by the NEAT1 gene in humans. This gene is located on chromosome 19q13.2. NEAT1 plays a crucial role in the development and maintenance of the nervous system. It is involved in the regulation of cell adhesion, migration, and differentiation, which are essential processes during neural development.

The NEAT1 protein is a member of the cadherin superfamily, which includes proteins that mediate cell-cell adhesion. NEAT1 is expressed in various tissues, including the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves. Its expression is particularly high in the developing nervous system, where it is involved in the formation of neural circuits and the establishment of synaptic connections.

Mutations in the NEAT1 gene have been associated with several neurological disorders, including lissencephaly, a condition characterized by abnormal brain development, and other forms of intellectual disability. These mutations can disrupt the normal function of NEAT1, leading to impaired neural development and function.

Research on NEAT1 is ongoing, with scientists exploring its potential as a therapeutic target for neurological disorders. Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying NEAT1 function and its role in neural development is essential for developing new treatments for these conditions.