MAM domain-containing glycosylphosphatidylinositol anchor protein 1 (MDGA1)

MAM domain-containing glycosylphosphatidylinositol anchor protein 1 (MDGA1) is a GPI-anchored cell surface glycoprotein primarily expressed in the developing nervous system that acts as a cell adhesion molecule. It possesses six immunoglobulin-like (Ig) domains, a fibronectin type III domain, a MAM domain, and a C-terminal GPI anchoring site[1][2][3]. MDGA1 modulates cell-cell adhesion and neuronal migration, including axon guidance and synaptic organization during neurodevelopment[1][2][4]. In the post-synaptic membrane, MDGA1 binds neuroligin 2 (NLGN2) and inhibits NLGN2’s interaction with neurexins, thereby regulating the formation and function of inhibitory (GABAergic) synapses[2][3]. Mutations or altered expression of MDGA1 have been linked to psychiatric and neurodevelopmental disorders such as bipolar disorder and schizophrenia[3]. MDGA1 functions by both homophilic and heterophilic mechanisms and relies on the structural conformation of its extracellular domains for its ability to regulate synaptic adhesion and function[2][3][4]. No known small-molecule drugs currently target MDGA1 directly.

Other names

MAMDC3GPIMGlycosylphosphatidylinositol-MAMMAM domain-containing protein 3GPI and MAM proteinMAM proteinMDGA1glycosylphosphatidylinositol-MAMMAM domain-containing glycosylphosphatidylinositol anchor protein 1