Work

Neurexins, Ephrin receptors, and N-cadherin signaling as emerging mechanisms in synaptic dysfunction and neurodegenerative diseases

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Synaptic cell adhesion molecules (SAMs) are essential for axon pathfinding and synaptic establishment during neurodevelopment, bridging the pre- and postsynaptic compartments across the synaptic cleft. While this function is well established, recent evidence has shown these proteins also exert key neuronal functions throughout the neuron’s life, regulating neuronal communication at mature synapses. Given these novel roles, SAMs are emerging as important elements relating to mental health and as significant contributors to age-related diseases, such as neurodegenerative disorders. For insight into this emerging role of SAMs, we focused on three pivotal regulator families of the central nervous system: Neurexins, Ephrin Receptors, and N-cadherins. This review summarizes the emerging roles of three pivotal cell adhesion families of the central nervous system in age-associated neurodegenerative disorders, highlighting new regulatory mechanisms at mature synapses.

Source: Communications Biology

DOI: 10.1038/s42003-026-10023-3

Authors: João Gonçalves-Martins, Carlos Cação, Joana S. Ferreira

Institutions: Centro de Inovação em Biomedicina e Biotecnologia, Multidisciplinary Institute of Ageing, University of Coimbra

Language: English

Topic: Neuroscience and Neuropharmacology Research

Subfield: Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience

Field: Neuroscience

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $4,190