Nanomechanical unfolding of α-neurexin: A major component of the synaptic junction

► Synapse protein rat neurexin 1α has been studied by AFM for the first time. ► Single molecule force spectra indicate a flexible hinge between L5 and E3 domains. ► LNS/LG domains unfold under a uniform force of 100 pN. ► Double maxima in AFM spectra suggest existence of intermediates. ► Nanomechanical data help to understand better neuron synapses.