fasciclin2

Fasciclin2 is a cell adhesion molecule belonging to the immunoglobulin superfamily. It plays a crucial role in the nervous system, particularly during the development of neural circuits. Fasciclin2 is involved in guiding growing axons to their correct targets, a process known as axonal guidance. It mediates cell-cell adhesion through homophilic interactions, meaning Fasciclin2 molecules on one cell bind to Fasciclin2 molecules on another cell.

This molecule is expressed on the surface of neurons and their growth cones, the motile tips of developing axons. By interacting with other Fasciclin2 molecules on neighboring axons or target cells, it helps to establish and maintain the precise connections that form functional neural pathways. Fasciclin2 has been shown to influence the fasciculation of axons, which is the process by which bundles of axons grow together. This bundling is important for efficient innervation of target tissues.

Research has indicated that Fasciclin2 is not only important for the initial formation of neural connections but also for their refinement and plasticity. Its expression levels and localization can change in response to neural activity, suggesting a role in modifying synaptic connections throughout life. Studies in various model organisms have demonstrated that disruptions in Fasciclin2 function can lead to significant defects in neural development and behavior. The precise molecular mechanisms by which Fasciclin2 exerts its effects are still under investigation, but it is understood to interact with intracellular signaling pathways that regulate cytoskeletal dynamics and cell migration.