Control of Cell Morphology: Signalling by the Receptor Notch.
Abstract
The goal of this study has been to test the hypothesis that the Notch gene controls axon extension in Drosophila by a mechanism distinct from that by which it controls cell fate, and if so, to identify Notch domains and downstream effectors that execute this function. This analysis has involved investigation of the phenotypes of Notch mutants and their interactions with mutations in genes encoding other signaling proteins, expression of Notch derivatives in vivo in both wild type and mutant genetic backgrounds, and examination of the biochemical interactions between Notch and other signaling proteins in vitro. Our experiments have established that the function of Notch in axon patterning is indeed genetically separate from the Notch-dependent control of cell fate; that the axonal function of Notch requires tethering of the protein to the plasma membrane; and that the abi/disabled signaling pathway executes the axonal function of Notch, perhaps via interaction with small GTPase of the Rho subfamily. In the course of these studies, we have also demonstrated directly that Notch can arrest cells at a precursor stage of their development and have observed indications that the Notch/abl pathway may play a role in genetic instability.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 1998
- Accession Number
- ADA363766
Entities
People
- Edward Giniger