Understanding the molecular basis of neuronal morphogenesis is important for addressing various neurobiological questions, from the establishment of a functional nervous system to the structural plasticity of neurons involved in learning and memory. To study how neurons acquire their complicated morphology in the Drosophila central nervous system, a novel genetic mosaic system has been developed for specifically labeling the morphology of genetically altered neurons in an otherwise wild type background. Using this newly developed system, one can closely follow the morphogenetic process of individual wild type or mutant neurons. To elucidate further the molecular mechanisms of neuronal morphogenesis, various aspects of cytoskeleton organization in developing wild type of mutant neurons will be examined with single cell resolution by using different markers in this new genetic mosaic system. Additionally, development of the mushroom body, especially regulation of neuroblast proliferation and reorganization of neurons during metamorphosis, will be investigated, which is important for future genetic screening of noel genes involved in mushroom body development. Cause of the essential role of the mushroom body in learning and memory, this study will also help to elucidate the molecular mechanisms of learning and memory.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS)
Type
Postdoctoral Individual National Research Service Award (F32)
Project #
5F32NS010876-02
Application #
6186745
Study Section
Special Emphasis Panel (ZRG1-MDCN-6 (01))
Program Officer
Finkelstein, Robert
Project Start
2000-06-17
Project End
2000-10-31
Budget Start
2000-06-17
Budget End
2000-10-31
Support Year
2
Fiscal Year
2000
Total Cost
$17,745
Indirect Cost
Name
Stanford University
Department
Biology
Type
Schools of Arts and Sciences
DUNS #
800771545
City
Stanford
State
CA
Country
United States
Zip Code
94305