ICAM5

ICAM5 (InterCellular Adhesion Molecule 5), also known as Telencephalin, is a protein that in humans is encoded by the ICAM5 gene. It is a member of the intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM) family. All ICAM proteins are type I transmembrane glycoproteins, contain 2-9 immunoglobulin-like C2-type domains, and bind to the leukocyte adhesion LFA-1 protein.

Function

ICAM5 is a cell adhesion molecule expressed only in the brain, specifically in the telencephalon. It is thought to play a role in the process of neuronal migration, a critical process in the development of the nervous system. ICAM5 inhibits neurite outgrowth and has a role in controlling the formation of synaptic connections between neurons.

Structure

The ICAM5 protein is a type I transmembrane protein with a large extracellular region, a single transmembrane region, and a small cytoplasmic region. The extracellular region contains six immunoglobulin-like domains, five of which are similar to the domains in ICAM1 and ICAM2, and a sixth domain that is unique to ICAM5.

Clinical significance

Alterations in ICAM5 expression have been associated with Alzheimer's disease, schizophrenia, and other neurological disorders. In Alzheimer's disease, ICAM5 expression is increased in the brain and may contribute to the inflammatory response seen in this disease.

Research

Research on ICAM5 has focused on its role in brain development and function, as well as its potential role in neurological disorders. Studies have shown that ICAM5 can regulate the growth and development of neurites, the long projections from neurons that form the basis of the nervous system.

See also

• Intercellular adhesion molecule
• Neuronal migration
• Alzheimer's disease
• Schizophrenia