Neural Cell Adhesion Molecules of the Immunoglobulin Superfamily Regulate Synapse Formation, Maintenance, and Function

Experimentally induced changes in expression of NCAM and L1 family members affect synaptic plasticity, learning and memory, and behavior. These effects are exacerbated by stress and aging. NCAM and L1 family members regulate the numbers and maturation of excitatory and inhibitory synapses, and changes in the levels of these cell adhesion molecules are required for the activity-dependent stabilization and destabilization of synapses. NCAM and L1...