Two novel CNRs from the CNR gene cluster have molecular features distinct from those of CNR1 to 8

Cadherin-related neuronal receptor (CNR) family proteins are known as synap tic cadherins and Reelin receptors, Here we have identified two novel mouse CNR genes, CNRc1 and CNRc2, orthologues of human protocadherin (Pcdh) alph a -c1 and Pcdh alpha -c2, respectively. While the variable large exons of C NRc1 and c2 contain six conserved extracellular cadherin repeats (EC1-6) an d are linked to the constant exons, both contain several molecular features distinct from CNR1-8, CNRc1 and c2 lack the Arg-Gly-Asp (RGD) sequence tha t is conserved in the EC1 of CNR1-8, which is necessary for binding to Reel in, The present studies confirm that CNRc1 and c2 failed to immunoprecipita te with Reelin. In addition, the regulation of novel CNR expression pattern s during brain development is slightly different from that of CNR1, The ide ntification of these new CNR genes characterized by their distinct extracel lular function and expression is indicative of the novel diversity of the p rocesses of brain structuring and synapse regulation, (C) 2001 Academic Pre ss.