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Abstract
ABSTRACT: BACKGROUND: Formation of synaptic connections is a dynamic and highly regulated process. Little is known about the gene networks that regulate synaptic growth and how they balance stimulatory and restrictive signals. RESULTS: Here we show that the neuronally expressed transcription factor gene erect wing (ewg) is a major target of the RNA binding protein ELAV and that EWG restricts synaptic growth at neuromuscular junctions. Using a functional genomics approach we demonstrate that EWG acts primarily through increasing mRNA levels of genes involved in transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression, while genes at the end of the regulatory expression hierarchy (effector genes) represent only a minor portion, indicating an extensive regulatory network. Among EWG-regulated genes are components of Wingless and Notch signaling pathways. In a clonal analysis we demonstrate that EWG genetically interacts with Wingless and Notch, and also with TGF-beta and AP-1 pathways in the regulation of synaptic growth. CONCLUSION: Our results show that EWG restricts synaptic growth by integrating multiple cellular signaling pathways into an extensive regulatory gene expression network.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | R73 |
Journal | Genome Biology |
Volume | 9 |
Issue number | 4 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 17 Apr 2008 |
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Dive into the research topics of 'Erect wing regulates synaptic growth in Drosophila by integration of multiple signaling pathways.'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.Projects
- 1 Finished
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Characterization and function of ELAV post-transcriptionally controlled gene networks in neuronal differentiation
Biotechnology & Biological Sciences Research Council
1/01/08 → 30/04/11
Project: Research Councils