Cell Interaction-Dependent Neural Development

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The nervous system is composed of numerous cell types. The mechanisms that control development of the different cell types are poorly understood. It is clear that a complex array of signals sent between the developing cells are essential. One type of signal is communicated through direct contact between the surface protein that influences the final stages of maturation of one cell type, the neuroglial cells. The current project will examine in more detail the role and mode of action of this protein in cultured retinal cells. Artificial genes will be constructed and introduced into the retinal cells. These artificial gene constructs will block normal expression of the protein in the retinal cells, thus allowing the investigators to directly observe the role of this molecule in specific developmental events. The protein being studied is one member of a large family of proteins, and one or more members of this family are present on most if not all cells of the developing nervous system. Insights gained as to the function of one member of this protein family will supply a better understanding of mechanisms active in development of all nervous system cells.***//