9311198 Sakaguchi This project will investigate the biological significance of certain specific molecules during the development of the brain . This project will test the hypothesis that the growing tips of nerve cell processes, or growth cones, use receptors for extracellular matrix molecules and specific cell adhesion molecules to navigate through the brain to their appropriate targets. The role of these molecules will be characterized using function-blocking reagents in the developing visual system. In addition, a combination of biochemical , immunological and molecular techniques will be used to examine the spatial and temporal distribution of these molecules during development. The results of these studies will provide important new information on the cellular and molecular basis of growth cone guidance and pathway selection. The longer term goal is to better understand the cellular and molecular mechanisms that regulate the formation of specific nerve connections during development. *** 9311198 Sakaguchi This project will investigate the biological significance of certain specific molecules during the develop | ~ w | ~ ! !. !. F ~ ~ ( Times New Roman Symbol & Arial " h ? ? saka William Proctor, IBN William Proctor, IBN
