Use of systematic genetic screens to identify enhancers and suppressors of Abelson, Neurotactin, and Commissureless gene products

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2024-05

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The Ohio State University

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Abstract

The development of the nervous system involves a myriad of intricate interactions between cells that direct neurons to their synaptic targets, which can be located on the same (ipsilateral) or opposite (contralateral) side of the developing central nervous system (CNS) midline. This study used a series of systematic genetic screens to identify enhancer and suppressor sequences of three different genes of interest involved in Drosophila melanogaster embryonic neuronal development: Abelson (Abl), Neurotactin (Nrt), and Commissureless (Comm). Because Abl’s function is well understood, data collected for Abl crosses serve as a positive control to ensure genetic screens conducted are effective. However, neither Nrt nor Comm are understood to the extent that Abl is. The goal of this research is to extend knowledge of how these genes work and are regulated, specifically by identifying other gene products that are important for modulating genetic activity. Preliminary findings indicate that there may be some enhancer and suppressor candidates of Comm viability phenotype, but variability in this phenotype needs to be accounted for in future analysis to reach stronger conclusions.

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Drosophila, genetics, enhancers, suppressors

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