Neurodevelopmental mutation of giant ankyrin-G disrupts a core mechanism for axon initial segment assembly.

Giant ankyrin-G (gAnkG) coordinates assembly of axon initial segments (AISs), which are sites of action potential generation located in proximal axons of most vertebrate neurons. Here, we identify a mechanism required for normal neural development in humans that ensures ordered recruitment of gAnkG and β4-spectrin to the AIS. We identified 3 human neurodevelopmental missense mutations located in the neurospecific domain of gAnkG that prevent recruitment of β4-spectrin, resulting in a lower density and more elongated pattern for gAnkG and its partners than in the mature AIS.

An alternative coverage for split thickness skin graft donor site wounds.

Diabetic foot and ankle soft tissue reconstruction poses a difficult challenge to the treating surgeon, especially in cases associated with previous infection or amputation. Maintenance of a functional, plantigrade limb is important with regard to prevention of persistent or recurrent cutaneous compromise following diabetic limb salvage. Wound coverage by means of application of a split thickness skin graft (STSG) is a useful technique; however, donor site wounds require care during the early postoperative period, and can pose a challenge to wound healing in and of themselves.