Complex brain circuitry with feedforward and feedback systems regulates neuronal activity, enabling neural networks to process and drive the entire spectrum of cognitive, behavioral, sensory, and motor functions. Simultaneous orchestration of distinct cells and interconnected neural circuits is underpinned by hundreds of synaptic adhesion molecules that span synaptic junctions. Dysfunction of a single molecule or molecular interaction at synapses can lead to disrupted circuit activity and brain disorders. Neuroligins, a family of cell adhesion molecules, were first identified as postsynaptic-binding partners of presynaptic neurexins and are essential for synapse specification and maturation. Here, we review recent advances in our understanding of how this family of adhesion molecules controls neuronal circuit assembly by acting in a synapse-specific manner.

具有前馈和反馈系统的复杂大脑电路可调节神经元活动，使神经网络能够处理和驱动整个认知、行为、感觉和运动功能。不同细胞和互连神经回路的同时协调是由数百个跨越突触连接的突触粘附分子支撑的。突触处单个分子或分子相互作用的功能障碍可能导致回路活动中断和大脑疾病。 Neuroligins 是细胞粘附分子家族，最初被鉴定为突触前神经毒素的突触后结合伴侣，对于突触规范和成熟至关重要。在这里，我们回顾了我们对这个粘附分子家族如何通过以突触特异性方式起作用来控制神经元回路组装的理解的最新进展。