Myelin-associated glycoprotein (MAG)

Adhesion molecule which mediates interactions between myelinating cells and neurons by binding to neuronal sialic acid- containing gangliosides and to the glycoproteins RTN4R and RTN4RL2 (By similarity). Not required for first myelination, but seems to play a role in the maintenance of normal axon myelination.

Protects motoneurons against apoptosis, also after trauma; protection against apoptosis is likely mediated via interaction with neuronal RTN4R and RTN4RL2. Required to prevent degeneration of myelinated axons in adults; this probably depends on binding to gangliosides on the axon cell membrane (By similarity).