Microtubule-associated protein 1B is a member of the high molecular weight microtubule binding phosphoprotein family, along with MAP1A. MAP1B is highly expressed in neurons, predominantly during development, where it regulates axonal guidance and elongation through its influence on microtubule dynamics. In mature neurons, MAP1B plays a role in regulation and structure of dendritic spines in glutamatergic synapses. MAP1B deficient neurons have been shown to display structural presynaptic deficiencies, including a decrease in density at synaptic terminals and disruption of synaptic vesicle fusion events. Mutations in MAP1B have been linked to developmental disorders affecting cognitive ability through a deficit in white matter and compromised axons.
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