Shank proteins are a family of scaffolding proteins that play a crucial role in the organization and function of synapses in the central nervous system. They are also known as ProSAP (Proline-rich Synapse-Associated Protein) proteins. These proteins are primarily located in the postsynaptic density (PSD) of excitatory synapses, where they interact with various other synaptic proteins to regulate synaptic structure and function.
