The work aims to generate a complete collection of Drosophila genes that are involved in retinal degeneration.
In specific aim 1, protocols will be established to select new mutations causing retinal degeneration. A genetic background permitting mutants to have dominant phenotypes will be used to simplify the process of identifying new mutants.
Specific aim 2 will apply these protocols to saturate the genome for mutations that cause retinal degeneration, and then use genetic and molecular tools to map the mutations.
Specific aim 3 is the molecular characterization of the encoded genes identified in this screen.
Specific aim 4 is directed at defining the mechanisms by which these mutants show retinal degeneration, using a combination of genetic, cell biological, and molecular techniques. Finally the last specific aim involves efforts to use the identified Drosophila genes to isolate corresponding human homologs, and test the ability of the human genes to function in Drosophila.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Eye Institute (NEI)
Type
Research Project (R01)
Project #
5R01EY006979-13
Application #
2888288
Study Section
Visual Sciences C Study Section (VISC)
Project Start
1987-04-01
Project End
2001-07-31
Budget Start
1999-08-01
Budget End
2001-07-31
Support Year
13
Fiscal Year
1999
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
University of California San Diego
Department
Biology
Type
Schools of Arts and Sciences
DUNS #
077758407
City
La Jolla
State
CA
Country
United States
Zip Code
92093
Cook, Boaz; Hardy, Robert W; McConnaughey, William B et al. (2008) Preserving cell shape under environmental stress. Nature 452:361-4
Zelhof, Andrew C; Hardy, Robert W; Becker, Ann et al. (2006) Transforming the architecture of compound eyes. Nature 443:696-9