Neuronal migration protein doublecortin (DCX)

Neuronal migration protein doublecortin (DCX) is a microtubule-associated protein that plays a critical role in the migration of immature neurons during developmental neurogenesis, particularly in the cortex[1][2][3][4][5]. DCX binds and stabilizes microtubules, promotes their polymerization, and is essential for correct layering of neurons in the developing brain[1][3][5]. It interacts through two tandemly repeated DC (doublecortin) domains that enable cooperative binding to the microtubule lattice, directly influencing microtubule architecture, rigidity, and dynamics[1][2][5]. Mutations in the DCX gene cause X-linked lissencephaly and subcortical band heterotopia—disorders resulting in abnormal neuronal migration, intellectual disabilities, and epilepsy[2][4][5]. DCX is predominantly expressed in neuronal precursor cells and immature neurons and is widely used as a research marker for neurogenesis, but it is not currently a direct therapeutic target. Experimental evidence indicates that DCX also influences microtubule posttranslational modification, including α-tubulin polyglutamylation, impacting neuronal branching in development[2]. Disruptions to DCX function are associated with defects in microtubule regulation, impaired migration, and structural brain abnormalities.

Other names

doublinlissencephalin-Xdoublecortexdoublecortin-X

Microtubule stabilization; Promotion of microtubule polymerization; Regulation of tubulin post-translational modification (polyglutamylation)