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Related Experiment Videos

Evolution of clams (cholinesterase-like adhesion molecules): structure and function during development.

Mary M Gilbert1, Vanessa J Auld

  • 1Department of Zoology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.

Frontiers in Bioscience : a Journal and Virtual Library
|June 23, 2005
PubMed
Summary

Cholinesterase-like adhesion molecules (CLAMS) are novel cell adhesion proteins crucial for tissue development. Their cholinesterase-like domain, though non-enzymatic, mediates heterophilic binding essential for junction formation.

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Area of Science:

  • Cell Biology
  • Developmental Biology
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • CLAMS (cholinesterase-like adhesion molecules) represent a novel protein family involved in cell adhesion.
  • Family members are conserved across metazoans and play roles in tissue development.
  • CLAMS possess a cholinesterase-like domain but lack catalytic activity, suggesting a non-enzymatic function.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the role of the cholinesterase-like domain in CLAMS function.
  • To understand how evolutionary changes in CLAMS affect ligand binding and protein function.
  • To elucidate the involvement of CLAMS in the formation of specialized cellular junctions.

Main Methods:

  • Comparative genomics and protein domain analysis.
  • Structural modeling of the cholinesterase-like domain.

Related Experiment Videos

  • Analysis of mutant CLAM family members using chimera experiments.

    • Main Results:

    • The cholinesterase-like domain of CLAMS is essential for heterophilic binding, not enzymatic activity.
    • Evolutionary modifications in the binding pocket influence ligand specificity.
    • Mutations affecting the cholinesterase-like domain disrupt junction development, confirming its role in binding.

    Conclusions:

    • CLAMS are critical for cell adhesion and the development of various tissue junctions.
    • The non-enzymatic cholinesterase-like domain is a key mediator of heterophilic interactions.
    • Understanding CLAMS structure-function relationships provides insights into developmental processes.