Cell Adhesion Molecule Close Homolog of L1 (CHL1) Guides the Regrowth of Regenerating Motor Axons and Regulates Synaptic Coverage of Motor Neurons

This study investigates the role of CHL1, a cell adhesion molecule, in nerve regeneration after injury. CHL1 is known to be involved in neuronal development and synaptic activity. The researchers used a mouse model of femoral nerve regeneration to compare CHL1 knock-out mice with wild-type mice, looking at synaptic phenotypes and nerve regrowth. The study found that CHL1 deficiency affects motor axon regrowth and synaptic coverage in the spinal cord, suggesting its involvement in peripheral nerve regeneration.

• 1
  CHL1-deficient mice showed decreased preferential motor re-innervation, indicating reduced precision in motor axon targeting after nerve injury.
• 2
  Regenerated quadriceps nerve branch exhibited increased axonal numbers in CHL1-deficient mice compared to wild-type, suggesting enhanced axonal regrowth or sprouting.
• 3
  Non-injured CHL1-deficient mice had increased inhibitory synaptic coverage and reduced excitatory synaptic coverage on motor neurons, indicating altered synaptic balance.