Cell adhesion molecules (CAMs) represent a large group of structurally diverse proteins well known to mediate adhesion for neural circuit assembly. Through their adhesive properties, CAMs act as major regulators of axon navigation, fasciculation, and synapse formation. While the adhesive functions of CAMs have been known for decades, more recent studies have unraveled other essential, non-adhesive functions as well.  In their new review article, Trevor Moreland and Dr. Fabienne Poulain summarize the classical adhesive functions of CAMs in axonal development and discuss the increasing number of other non-adhesive functions CAMs play in neural circuit assembly. A great read!