Chen Ding

The kinetochore proteins Ndc80 and Dsn1 are required for survival of postmitotic neurons

This study shows that Dsn1 and Ndc80 are essential for postmitotic neuron survival, distinct from their role in synaptogenesis, and identifies domain-specific functions in neuronal viability.

Loss of SARM1 protects against retinal ganglion cell degeneration in Autosomal Dominant Optic Atrophy

This study identifies SARM1 as a key driver of retinal ganglion cell degeneration in ADOA and shows its suppression prevents degeneration phenotypes.

Neurexin and Frizzled signaling intercept axonal-transport at microtubule minus-ends to control synapse formation

The paper identifies VAB-8/KIF26 as a key molecule mediating synaptic cargo delivery at microtubule minus-ends, linking Neurexin and Frizzled signaling to synapse formation in C. elegans.

Activation of the CaMKII-Sarm1-ASK1 MAP kinase pathway protects against axon degeneration caused by loss of mitochondria

The paper identifies the CaMKII-Sarm1-ASK1 pathway as a neuroprotective mechanism against axon degeneration caused by mitochondrial loss in C. elegans.

Aberrant Information Transfer Interferes with Functional Axon Regeneration

This study shows that axon regeneration alone is insufficient for functional recovery; synapse reformation and function are also critical, and correcting information transfer improves behavioral recovery.