Molecular Physiology Colloquium: Molecular Basis of Neuronal Connectivity involving Adhesion GPCRs

Antony Boucard Jr., PhD, Professor-Investigator Dept. of Cell Biology, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del IPN Mexico City, Mexico

The specificity of synapse formation represents an event of crucial importance for the establishment of neuronal networks, leading to trillions of intercellular connections shaping the functional basis of the nervous system. Such apparent complexity is alleviated by the persistent involvement of cell-adhesion molecules, which participate in heterophilic interactions to initiate, stabilize and maintain proper interneuronal contacts. Exploring a series of hierarchical properties such as isoform specificity, alternative splicing, domain modularity and tissue/cell distribution, we will focus on members of a particular family of G Protein-Coupled Receptors (GPCRs), the Adhesion-GPCRs. We will discuss how these molecules intervene in bridging the synaptic cleft by providing a molecular code that allows for a high degree of specificity. Venue: Lecture hall “HS 18”, Institue of Zoology, J-J-Becher Weg 9, JGU Campus