The PAM family, or Protocadherin Alpha, Beta, and Gamma, consists of a group of proteins that play crucial roles in the nervous system. These proteins are involved in cell adhesion, which helps neurons connect and communicate with each other. This is essential for proper brain function and development. Members of the PAM family are encoded by a large cluster of genes located on chromosome 5 in humans. They are known to contribute to various processes, including neural development and synaptic plasticity, which is vital for learning and memory. Disruptions in PAM family proteins can be linked to neurological disorders.