Molecular mechanisms regulating neural diversity
Molecular mechanisms regulating neural diversity
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Temporally expressed genes within neural progenitors not only define neuronal identity and connectivity, but also determine their ultimate function. We have recently identified more than a dozen transcription factors and RNA-binding proteins expressed temporally in neural stem cells. We will investigate how individual temporal factors determine neural/glial identity and function.
Temporally expressed genes within neural progenitors not only define neuronal identity and connectivity, but also determine their ultimate function. We have recently identified more than a dozen transcription factors and RNA-binding proteins expressed temporally in neural stem cells. We will investigate how individual temporal factors determine neural/glial identity and function.
Glial cell diversity and function
Glial cell diversity and function
Glial cells, once thought to be just supporting cells, outnumber neurons in our brain, yet we know very little about their development and function. Using the adult Drosophila brain as a model system, we address glial differentiation and function in the central complex.
Glial cells, once thought to be just supporting cells, outnumber neurons in our brain, yet we know very little about their development and function. Using the adult Drosophila brain as a model system, we address glial differentiation and function in the central complex.
Developmental specification of complex bahaviors
Developmental specification of complex bahaviors
Our research program uncovers how neural stem cells generate diverse neuron types and assemble circuits that drive complex behaviors such as navigation and sleep. Using the Drosophila central complex as a model, we combine developmental genetics, circuit mapping, and behavior to reveal how lineage identity and temporal programs sculpt neural networks. By linking early developmental decisions within neural stem cells to adult brain function, we aim to uncover fundamental principles of neural diversity and behavioral control that are conserved across species.
Our research program uncovers how neural stem cells generate diverse neuron types and assemble circuits that drive complex behaviors such as navigation and sleep. Using the Drosophila central complex as a model, we combine developmental genetics, circuit mapping, and behavior to reveal how lineage identity and temporal programs sculpt neural networks. By linking early developmental decisions within neural stem cells to adult brain function, we aim to uncover fundamental principles of neural diversity and behavioral control that are conserved across species.
Hormones and Brain development
Hormones and Brain development
Previously, we have shown that steroid hormone ecdysone regulates temporal gene transitions and neural diversity. However, the molecular mechanisms by which the hormonal signal exerts its function and changes the competency of neural stem cells remain to be elucidated.
Previously, we have shown that steroid hormone ecdysone regulates temporal gene transitions and neural diversity. However, the molecular mechanisms by which the hormonal signal exerts its function and changes the competency of neural stem cells remain to be elucidated.
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