The general focus of the proposed work is to investigate the role of neurotransmitters in the development and/or maintenance of normal structure in the nervous system of Drosophila melanogaster. To that end, we have been studying the effects on the structure and function of the nervous system of mutants which perturb the normal metabolism either of acetylcholine or of glutamate. The work outlined in this proposal seeks to improve our understanding of the genetics of the loci which code for isozymic forms of glutamate oxaloacetic transaminase, an enzyme which plays a potentially prominent role in the synthesis of transmitter-glutamate. We also intend to carry out a preliminary characterization of glutamate receptors in the fly. We will use genetic mosaics in attempt to define the spatial and temporal role of acetylcholinesterase and choline acetyl transferase in the development of the antennal sensory complex and its axonal projections to the antennal glomerulus in the brain proper. Additionally, we will carry out measurements to ascertain the effect of mutants in acetylcholine metabolism on the actual levels of acetylcholine in the fly at various stages in its life cycle.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS)
Type
Research Project (R01)
Project #
5R01NS019193-05
Application #
3399170
Study Section
Mammalian Genetics Study Section (MGN)
Project Start
1983-04-01
Project End
1988-08-31
Budget Start
1987-09-01
Budget End
1988-08-31
Support Year
5
Fiscal Year
1987
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
Yale University
Department
Type
Schools of Arts and Sciences
DUNS #
082359691
City
New Haven
State
CT
Country
United States
Zip Code
06520