The brain is an aggregate of nerve cells. Various higher brain functions such as vision, audition, and speech are produced by forming a complex network of thecells. Cell adhesion molecules on the surface of the nerve cell are necessary for these brain functions. Our laboratory focuses on cell adhesion molecules related to psychiatric disorders such as autism spectrum disorders and eating disorders. We aim to elucidate the mechanisms of a pathogeny of these disorders and braindevelopment by revealing the localization and function of these molecules using molecular biology, cell biology, and immunohistochemical techniques.