Down Syndrome cell adhesion molecule (DSCAM) is a transmembrane protein that has a significant role in proper neurodevelopment by promoting self-avoidance in neurons. This project aims to identify proteins that interact with DSCAM in the mouse brain by using a library of plasmids. The plasmid library was tested for proteins that interact with the C-terminus end of DSCAM in Brewer’s yeast (S. cerevisiae). By using the bait and prey method from a yeast two-hybrid system, mouse brain proteins were tested for true interaction with DSCAM. Proteins that interact with DSCAM allow the yeast to produce their own leucine, which aids in the growth of the yeast on selective media. Proteins that have been identified as possible protein interactors include COX5B, NEFL, ELAV1, and SOD1, among others. By identifying interactions between unknown proteins and DSCAM, we will be better able to map out the protein interactions that lead to the proper development of the brain
