Cell and growth cone migrations establish the pattern of a developing nervous system. While several conserved proteins have been implicated in these processes in vertebrates and invertebrates, little is known about the molecular control of anteroposterior migrations. These migrations are the focus of the two specific aims of this proposal, which utilizes the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. First, the investigator will use a genetic screen involving direct visualization of neurons and their axons in living animals to identify mutants with defects in anteroposterior axonal growth and pathfinding. The genes identified by these mutations will be characterized genetically and molecularly. Second, the investigator will clone and analyze the mig-11 gene, which is needed for the posteriorly directed migration of CAN cells and axons. The focus of action of the gene will be determined by mosaic analysis, GFP reporter fusions, in situ hybridization, and antibodies. Molecular and genetic interactions with mig-11 will be studied as well.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS)
Type
Research Project (R01)
Project #
5R01NS039397-03
Application #
6499444
Study Section
Special Emphasis Panel (ZRG1-MDCN-7 (01))
Program Officer
Tagle, Danilo A
Project Start
2000-02-10
Project End
2005-01-31
Budget Start
2002-02-01
Budget End
2003-01-31
Support Year
3
Fiscal Year
2002
Total Cost
$336,173
Indirect Cost
Name
New York University
Department
Pharmacology
Type
Schools of Medicine
DUNS #
City
New York
State
NY
Country
United States
Zip Code
10016
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