This proposal focuses on the molecular mechanisms that underlie the guidance of specific motor neuron subtypes to their proper muscle targets. The extension and targeting of motor axons to the periphery is a fundamental component of mammalian nervous system development yet the identity of the molecules directly responsible for this process remain largely obscure. Preliminary studies indicate members of the FGF family of genes can induce motor axon outgrowth in vitro, but the effect of FGFs on motor axon guidance in vivo is unknown. The experiments in this proposal are designed is to specifically define the role of FGF genes in motor axon pathfinding.
The first aim will define the expression patterns of FGFs and their receptors at embryonic stages relevant to motor axon outgrowth.
Aim two will utilize FGF receptor conditional mutant mice to examine the alterations in motor axon guidance that are caused by a loss of FGF signalling.
The third aim will use electroporation of chick spinal cord to asses the specificity of FGF mediated axon guidance for specifc subpopulations of motor neurons ? ?

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS)
Type
Postdoctoral Individual National Research Service Award (F32)
Project #
1F32NS053256-01
Application #
7003052
Study Section
Special Emphasis Panel (ZRG1-F03A (20))
Program Officer
Mamounas, Laura
Project Start
2005-08-16
Project End
2007-08-15
Budget Start
2005-08-16
Budget End
2006-08-15
Support Year
1
Fiscal Year
2005
Total Cost
$43,976
Indirect Cost
Name
Salk Institute for Biological Studies
Department
Type
DUNS #
078731668
City
La Jolla
State
CA
Country
United States
Zip Code
92037