anti- SHANK1 antibody

Background

SHANK1 is a scaffold protein in the postsynaptic density (PSD) of excitatory synapses that links receptors, ion channels, and signaling molecules to the actin cytoskeleton. It contains multiple domains, including SH3, ankyrin repeats, and PDZ domains, which enable interactions with proteins such as PSD-95, NMDA receptors, and cortactin, facilitating synaptic organization and signal transduction. SHANK1 plays a critical role in synaptic stability, plasticity, and neuronal communication, contributing to processes like learning, memory, and behavior. It is highly expressed in the brain, particularly in regions associated with cognition. Mutations or deletions of SHANK1 have been implicated in neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorders (ASD), where impaired synaptic signaling disrupts neural connectivity. Knockout models show altered synaptic morphology, reduced excitatory synaptic transmission, and behavioral deficits, highlighting its essential role in maintaining synaptic function and brain connectivity.