Investigation of the function of the LNX family of E3 ubiquitin ligases in the nervous system

The Lnx1 (Ligand of Numb protein X 1) and Lnx2 genes belong to a family of PDZ domain-containing RING finger domain E3 ubiquitin ligases. mRNA expression for both genes have been reported in early murine central nervous system. However, there have been limited reports with regards to the expression patterns for both the proteins in vivo. Hence, we have attempted to characterize the significance of these proteins in the context of morphology and physiology of the central nervous system. Through our studies, we have attempted to examine closely the expression of these two genes in the murine central nervous system. We have also looked at novel interacting ligands for both proteins. Interacting partners have been examined with particular relevance to possible roles of their interactions with LNX1 and LNX2 in the functioning of the nervous system. Moreover, we have performed loss-of-function studies by way of creation and characterization of knockout mice.