Year: 2023
Type: article
Abstract: To create a functional neural circuit, neurons develop a molecular identity to discriminate self from non-self. The invertebrate Dscam family and vertebrate Pcdh family are implicated in determining synaptic specificity. Recently identified in Chelicerata, a shortened Dscam (sDscam) has been shown to resemble the isoform-generating characters of both Dscam and Pcdh and represent an evolutionary transition. Here we presented the molecular details of sDscam self-recognition via both trans and cis interactions using X-ray crystallographic data and functional assays. Based on our results, we proposed a molecular zipper model for the assemblies of sDscam to mediate cell-cell recognition. In this model, sDscam utilized FNIII domain to form side-by-side interactions with neighboring molecules in the same cell while established hand-in-hand interactions via Ig1 domain with molecules from another cell around. Together, our study provided a framework for understanding the assembly, recognition, and evolution of sDscam.
Source: Nature Communications
Institutions: Sichuan University, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Zhejiang University, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute, The Ohio State University, West China Medical Center of Sichuan University
Language: English
Subfield: Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience
Field: Neuroscience
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $6,290
OpenAlex ID: W4367693178