Deciphering the intricate development of the vertebrate neuromuscular junction (NMJ). This review delves into the formation, maturation, elimination, maintenance, and regeneration of NMJs, the most studied of all synapses. It explores the exchange of signals among nerve terminals, muscle fibers, and Schwann cells, crucial components of the NMJ. While motor axons can form NMJs with any muscle fiber, specific cues prioritize synapse formation with appropriate partners. Postnatally, the NMJ undergoes alterations, including the elimination of excess inputs via muscle-mediated competition. After completion, the NMJ remains stable but can be remodeled after perturbations. Regeneration occurs following nerve or muscle damage, differing fundamentally from embryonic synaptogenesis. The authors consider the NMJ as a model for neuron-neuron synapse development, providing insights into neural communication and adaptability.
Published in the Annual Review of Neuroscience, this paper directly aligns with the journal's focus on providing comprehensive overviews of key topics in neuroscience. By detailing the development and dynamics of the neuromuscular junction, a critical component of the nervous system, this review contributes significantly to the understanding of fundamental neurological processes.