Topic: microtubule dynamics

Development of the cerebral cortex involves many phases, including neural stem cell proliferation, neuronal migration, and differentiation. Defects in these phases lead to malformations in cortical development (MCDs). For example, disruption in neuronal migration causes lissencephaly, a form of MCD characterized by a smooth brain surface. Mutations in a number of genes, such as PAFAH1B1 (aka LIS1), DCX, TUBA1A, ARX, and DYNC1H1, are common causes behind lissencephaly. Many of those genes are involved in microtubule assembly and stabilization during neuronal migration. Recently, mutations in MA

For the nervous system to function properly, mature neurons must have a stable dendritic architecture. Mature neurons still possess the capacity for structural plasticity, which is necessary to facilitate adaptive processes such as memory formation. What molecular and cellular mechanisms regulate this fine balance between dendritic structural stabilization and plasticity is unknown. Aberrant connectivity is the consequence of atrophy or maladaptive plasticity, which fails to preserve the ideal dendritic structure and is linked to a number of neurological disorders. The upkeep of mature dendrit