Contactin Associated Protein 2 (Cntnap2 Protein) is an important component in the neurobiology of neurodegenerative diseases. This page provides detailed information about its structure, function, and role in disease processes.
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CNTNAP2 Protein
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Protein Name: Contactin Associated Protein 2
Gene: CNTNAP2
UniProt ID: O14520
Molecular Weight: 200 kDa
Protein Family: Neurexin family
Subcellular Localization: Synaptic membranes
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Contactin Associated Protein 2 is a protein encoded by the CNTNAP2 gene. It belongs to the Neurexin family and is primarily localized to Synaptic membranes.
CNTNAP2 is a 200 kDa protein with multiple domains that enable its functions in neuronal development and synaptic communication.
Cell adhesion, synapse formation, neuronal migration, circuit assembly. This protein plays critical roles in brain development and function.
Alterations in CNTNAP2 have been associated with several neurological and neurodevelopmental disorders. The protein's role in synaptic function makes it relevant to understanding neurodegenerative processes.
Research is ongoing to develop therapeutic approaches targeting CNTNAP2.
[1] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9182613/
[2] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10574462/
[3] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11891228/
[4] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15231748/
[5] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16033772/
CNTNAP2 (Contactin-Associated Protein 2), also known as CASPR2, is a large neuronal adhesion protein of the neurexin family. It plays essential roles in neuronal development and synaptic function through multiple mechanisms:
| Partner | Interaction Type | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Contactin-2 | Heterophilic | Paranodal junction formation |
| DARP32 | PDZ-mediated | Synaptic scaffolding |
| CASK | PDZ-mediated | Synaptic organization |
| K+ channels | Complex | Juxtaparanodal clustering |
CNTNAP2 shows region-specific expression:
This expression pattern correlates with its roles in language, social cognition, and motor function.
Current therapeutic strategies include:
Future research focuses on:
The study of Contactin Associated Protein 2 (Cntnap2 Protein) has evolved significantly over the past decades. Research in this area has revealed important insights into the underlying mechanisms of neurodegeneration and continues to drive therapeutic development.
Historical context and key discoveries in this field have shaped our current understanding and will continue to guide future research directions.