Understanding how the complex interconnectivity of the nervous system is established represents one of the major goals of developmental neurobiology. This project will use the Drosophila visual system as a model system to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying axon target selection. The three sub-types of photoreceptor neurons (R cells) in each facet of the compound eye project along a shared pathway, but connect to neurons in different layers in the optic lobe. This sub-type specific axon targeting appears to involve differential gene expression. I will use a genetic screen based on visual behavior to identify genes expressed in sub-type specific patterns. Identified genes will then be assessed for their roles in R-cell subtype specification including sub-type identity, axon guidance and synaptic specificity. This should result in isolation of photoreceptor sub-type specific molecules including regulators of sub-type specific gene expression as well as axon guidance signaling molecules (eg., receptors) which determine the specificity of photoreceptor target selection.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Eye Institute (NEI)
Type
Postdoctoral Individual National Research Service Award (F32)
Project #
1F32EY007066-01
Application #
6208858
Study Section
Visual Sciences C Study Section (VISC)
Program Officer
Oberdorfer, Michael
Project Start
2000-07-01
Project End
Budget Start
2000-07-01
Budget End
2001-06-30
Support Year
1
Fiscal Year
2000
Total Cost
$30,916
Indirect Cost
Name
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Department
Biology
Type
Schools of Arts and Sciences
DUNS #
City
Cambridge
State
MA
Country
United States
Zip Code
02139