The Genetic Specification of Neuron-Target Interactions: The Role of LOLA

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The axon of a nerve cell (neuron) is the long process extending to a target cell, which carries the nerve signal to the target. When the nervous system develops, the growing axons require mechanisms for guiding them over some distance to the right target cells. It is commonly believed that any single decision about axon guidance is controlled by the interplay of a large number of molecular factors that may be secreted compounds, or compounds attached to cell surfaces. The genetic and developmental mechanisms that coordinate the correct timed expression of different proteins for axonal guidance remain obscure. This project concentrates on a genetic transcription factor named LOLA that appears to regulate the interaction of a class of motor neurons with their target muscles in the fruitfly, Drosophila. Genetic, biochemical and molecular approaches are used here to see how two related Lola proteins act, whether they may act differently between the neurons and their muscle cell targets, and how the effects of lola are modulated by control of other genes. Results will be important for better understanding development in general. The project also provides fine postdoctoral training.