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Expression and function of junctional adhesion molecule-C in myelinated peripheral nerves
Christoph Scheiermann1, Paolo Meda, Michel Aurrand-Lions
1National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, UK.
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|December 1, 2007
Summary
Junction adhesion molecule-C (JAM-C) is crucial for peripheral nerve health. This study reveals JAM-C
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cell Biology
- Immunology
Background:
- Junction adhesion molecule-C (JAM-C) is an adhesion molecule primarily studied in inflammatory contexts.
- Its role in peripheral nerve structure and function was previously unknown.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the expression and function of JAM-C in peripheral nerves.
- To determine JAM-C's role in Schwann cell biology and myelin sheath integrity.
Main Methods:
- Immunolabeling with confocal and electron microscopy.
- Analysis of sciatic nerves from JAM-C-deficient (knockout) mice.
- Morphological, electrophysiological, and behavioral assessments.
Main Results:
- JAM-C is expressed in Schwann cells at myelin end loops in peripheral nerves.
- JAM-C-deficient mice show myelin sheath defects and impaired nerve conduction.
- Motor abnormalities were observed in JAM-C-deficient mice.
- Similar JAM-C expression was found in human sural nerves.
Conclusions:
- JAM-C is a key component of Schwann cell junctions in myelinated peripheral nerves.
- JAM-C is essential for maintaining myelin sheath integrity and proper nerve function.
- This highlights a novel role for JAM-C beyond inflammation.
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