Work

The Role of the Immunoglobulin Superfamily of Cell Adhesion Molecules in Intellectual Disability

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Immunoglobulin superfamily (IgSF) cell adhesion molecules (CAMs) are cell surface glycoproteins that play critical roles during multiple stages of synapse formation, including axon and dendrite growth and guidance, target recognition, axo-dendritic contact formation and its maturation into a functional synapse. Intellectual disability is a condition characterized by significant limitations in intellectual functioning and adaptive behaviors. Growing evidence indicates that deficits in synapse formation underlie the pathogenesis of intellectual disability. In this review, we discuss studies showing that levels and functions of IgSF CAMs are affected in various syndromes and disorders associated with intellectual disability, including Fragile X syndrome, Rett syndrome, Down syndrome, autism spectrum disorder, L1 syndrome and fetal alcohol spectrum disorders. We highlight functional studies in cellular and animal models showing that changes in levels and functions of IgSF CAMs impair synapse formation and induce learning and behavioral abnormalities resembling those found in people with intellectual disability. Together, these studies indicate that IgSF CAMs need to be considered as important therapeutic targets for treating intellectual disability and their functions need to be assessed when new treatments of this condition are developed.

Source: Cells

DOI: 10.3390/cells15191801

Authors: Nishat Zaman, Karina Bui, Vladimir Sytnyk

Institution: UNSW Sydney

Language: English

Topic: Genetics and Neurodevelopmental Disorders

Subfield: Genetics

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,258