CD38, CD157, and RAGE as Molecular Determinants for Social Behavior

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Immunology
• Genetics

Background:

• Cluster of differentiation 38 (CD38) and CD157 are neuroregulators impacting social behaviors.
• Impaired social behaviors are observed in CD38 and CD157 knockout mice.
• Gene variations in CD38 and CD157/BST1 are linked to neurological and psychiatric disorders.

Purpose of the Study:

• To overview the CD38/CD157-dependent oxytocin (OT) release mechanism in the brain.
• To highlight the role of OT and its system in mediating social behaviors.
• To discuss the involvement of CD38 and CD157 in neuronal development, aging, and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide+ (NAD+) levels.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing studies on CD38, CD157, oxytocin, and RAGE.
• Analysis of knockout mouse models for social behavior deficits.
• Examination of genetic associations between CD38/CD157 polymorphisms and neurological conditions.

Main Results:

• CD38 and CD157 play a key role in the brain's oxytocin (OT) release, initiating social behavior.
• The receptor for advanced glycation end-products (RAGE) acts as an OT transporter across the blood-brain barrier.
• CD38 and CD157 influence neuronal development and aging, potentially through NAD+ regulation.

Conclusions:

• CD38, CD157, and RAGE are critical for regulating brain OT levels and facilitating social recognition and behavior.
• These molecules are implicated in the pathophysiology of various neurological and psychiatric conditions.
• Further research into CD38 and CD157 offers potential therapeutic targets for social behavior disorders.