Target intelligence / Profile preview

Neuroligin-2 (NLGN2)

Target: NLGN2
Molecular classification: Synaptic adhesion protein, Cell adhesion molecule, Postsynaptic cell surface protein

Overview

Neuroligin-2 is a postsynaptic cell adhesion protein found primarily at GABAergic inhibitory synapses in the central nervous system[1][2][3][4][5]. It is integral to synapse formation and function, specifically by recruiting and stabilizing GABA(A) receptors and assembling the postsynaptic scaffolding protein gephyrin[1][3][5]. Neuroligin-2 interacts extracellularly with presynaptic neurexins to form Ca2+-dependent trans-synaptic complexes, playing an essential role in the assembly and maintenance of inhibitory synaptic transmission[2][3]. Loss or mutation of Neuroligin-2 impairs inhibitory (GABAergic) synapse function and has been implicated in several neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric disorders[3][4]. No approved drugs currently target Neuroligin-2 directly, but its disruption may serve as a biomarker or research target in studies of neural inhibition and psychiatric disorders[5].

Other names: Neuroligin-2NLGN2KIAA1366neuroligin 2neuroligin-2

Mechanism of action

N/A (No drugs targeting Neuroligin-2 directly are in clinical use. Functional modulation would be via affecting synaptic adhesion and inhibitory signaling.)

Biological functions

Regulation of inhibitory synaptic transmissionFormation and remodeling of central nervous system synapsesRecruitment of GABA(A) receptors and postsynaptic scaffolding proteinsCell-cell adhesion at GABAergic (inhibitory) synapses

Disease associations

Neurodevelopmental disorders (e.g., autism spectrum disorders)Other neurological and psychiatric diseases (e.g., schizophrenia, epilepsy, anxiety disorders)

Safety considerations

Disruption leads to altered inhibitory neurotransmission, which has the potential for neuropsychiatric side effects and effects on neural network homeostasis[1][3].

Interacting drugs

None established or clinically approved as of now

Biomarkers

NLGN2 expression (as a marker for certain interneuron populations or perturbations in inhibitory networks in neuropsychiatric disease research)

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