Cell adhesion mediated by Cadherin-2 (Cdh2) is important during both phases of migration for maintaining interactions between FBMNs (facial brachiomotor neurons) and the trailing axon of the pioneer neuron, as well as the MLF (medial longitudinal fasciculus). The pioneer itself is able to migrate independently of both Cdh2 and the MLF, suggesting the use of other factors to travel through the hindbrain. Cdh2 participates in early FBMN migration, having an important role in interactions between follower FBMNs and the trailing axon of the pioneer neuron.