scholarly journals The VT GAL4, LexA, and split-GAL4 driver line collections for targeted expression in the Drosophila nervous system

2017 ◽  
Author(s):  
Laszlo Tirian ◽  
Barry J. Dickson
Keyword(s):  
Nervous System ◽  
Transgene Expression ◽  
Expression Patterns ◽  
Neuronal Cell ◽  
Cell Types ◽  
Specific Cell ◽  
Cellular Interactions ◽  
Gal4 Driver ◽  
Targeted Expression ◽  
Driver Line

AbstractIn studying the cellular interactions within complex tissues, it is extremely valuable to be able to reproducibly and flexibly target transgene expression to restricted subsets of cells. This approach is particularly valuable in studying the nervous system, with its bewildering diversity of neuronal cell types. We report here the generation of over 18,000 driver lines (the VT collection) that exploit the GAL4, LexA, and split-GAL4 systems to express transgenes in distinct and highly specific cell types in Drosophila. We document the expression patterns of over 14,000 of these lines in the adult male brain.

scholarly journals Molecular and cytological analysis of widely-used Gal4 driver lines for Drosophila neurobiology

BMC Genetics ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 21 (S1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Anna A. Ogienko ◽  
Evgeniya N. Andreyeva ◽  
Evgeniya S. Omelina ◽  
Anastasiya L. Oshchepkova ◽  
Alexey V. Pindyurin
Keyword(s):  
Molecular Mechanisms ◽  
Target Genes ◽  
Expression Patterns ◽  
Cell Types ◽  
Specific Cell ◽  
Gal4 Driver ◽  
Genomic Location ◽  
Insertion Sites ◽  
Convenient Model ◽  
Gal4 Line

Abstract Background The Drosophila central nervous system (CNS) is a convenient model system for the study of the molecular mechanisms of conserved neurobiological processes. The manipulation of gene activity in specific cell types and subtypes of the Drosophila CNS is frequently achieved by employing the binary Gal4/UAS system. However, many Gal4 driver lines available from the Bloomington Drosophila Stock Center (BDSC) and commonly used in Drosophila neurobiology are still not well characterized. Among these are three lines with Gal4 driven by the elav promoter (BDSC #8760, #8765, and #458), one line with Gal4 driven by the repo promoter (BDSC #7415), and the 69B-Gal4 line (BDSC #1774). For most of these lines, the exact insertion sites of the transgenes and the detailed expression patterns of Gal4 are not known. This study is aimed at filling these gaps. Results We have mapped the genomic location of the Gal4-bearing P-elements carried by the BDSC lines #8760, #8765, #458, #7415, and #1774. In addition, for each of these lines, we have analyzed the Gal4-driven GFP expression pattern in the third instar larval CNS and eye-antennal imaginal discs. Localizations of the endogenous Elav and Repo proteins were used as markers of neuronal and glial cells, respectively. Conclusions We provide a mini-atlas of the spatial activity of Gal4 drivers that are widely used for the expression of UAS–target genes in the Drosophila CNS. The data will be helpful for planning experiments with these drivers and for the correct interpretation of the results.

scholarly journals Beyond the GFAP-Astrocyte Protein Markers in the Brain

Biomolecules ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (9) ◽  
pp. 1361
Author(s):  
Agnieszka M. Jurga ◽  
Martyna Paleczna ◽  
Justyna Kadluczka ◽  
Katarzyna Z. Kuter
Keyword(s):  
Nervous System ◽  
Experimental Studies ◽  
Structural Diversity ◽  
Cell Types ◽  
Cellular Interactions ◽  
Quick Response ◽  
Protein Markers ◽  
Marker Proteins ◽  
Functional Efficiency ◽  
The Brain

The idea of central nervous system as one-man band favoring neurons is long gone. Now we all are aware that neurons and neuroglia are team players and constant communication between those various cell types is essential to maintain functional efficiency and a quick response to danger. Here, we summarize and discuss known and new markers of astroglial multiple functions, their natural heterogeneity, cellular interactions, aging and disease-induced dysfunctions. This review is focused on newly reported facts regarding astrocytes, which are beyond the old stereotypes. We present an up-to-date list of marker proteins used to identify a broad spectrum of astroglial phenotypes related to the various physiological and pathological nervous system conditions. The aim of this review is to help choose markers that are well-tailored for specific needs of further experimental studies, precisely recognizing differential glial phenotypes, or for diagnostic purposes. We hope it will help to categorize the functional and structural diversity of the astroglial population and ease a clear readout of future experimental results.

The underground life of homeodomain-leucine zipper transcription factors

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Perotti M F ◽  
Arce A L ◽  
R L Chan
Keyword(s):  
Transcription Factors ◽  
Root Development ◽  
Leucine Zipper ◽  
Current Knowledge ◽  
Expression Patterns ◽  
Large Family ◽  
Cell Types ◽  
Structural Features ◽  
Specific Cell ◽  
High Plasticity

Abstract Roots are the anchorage organs of plants, responsible for water and nutrient uptake, exhibiting high plasticity. Root architecture is driven by the interactions of biomolecules, including transcription factors (TFs) and hormones that are crucial players regulating root plasticity. Multiple TF families are involved in root development; some, such as ARFs and LBDs, have been well characterized, whereas others remain less investigated. In this review, we synthesize the current knowledge about the involvement of the large family of homeodomain-leucine zipper (HD-Zip) TFs in root development. This family is divided into four subfamilies (I to IV), mainly according to structural features, such as additional motifs aside from HD-Zip, as well as their size, gene structure, and expression patterns. We explored and analyzed public databases and the scientific literature regarding HD-Zip TFs in Arabidopsis and other species. Most members of the four HD-Zip subfamilies are expressed in specific cell types and several ones from each group have assigned functions in root development. Notably, a high proportion of the studied proteins are part of intricate regulation pathways involved in primary and lateral root growth and development.

The role of globins in cardiovascular physiology

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
T.C. Steven Keller ◽  
Christophe Lechauve ◽  
Alexander S Keller ◽  
Steven Brooks ◽  
Mitchell J Weiss ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Skeletal Muscle ◽  
Central Nervous System ◽  
Nervous System ◽  
Smooth Muscle ◽  
Vascular Smooth Muscle ◽  
Smooth Muscle Cells ◽  
Muscle Cells ◽  
Cell Types ◽  
Specific Cell ◽  
In Cells

Globin proteins exist in every cell type of the vasculature, from erythrocytes to endothelial cells, vascular smooth muscle cells, and peripheral nerve cells. Many globin subtypes are also expressed in muscle tissues (including cardiac and skeletal muscle), in other organ-specific cell types, and in cells of the central nervous system. The ability of each of these globins to interact with molecular oxygen (O2) and nitric oxide (NO) is preserved across these contexts. Endothelial α-globin is an example of extra-erythrocytic globin expression. Other globins, including myoglobin, cytoglobin, and neuroglobin are observed in other vascular tissues. Myoglobin is observed primarily in skeletal muscle and smooth muscle cells surrounding the aorta or other large arteries. Cytoglobin is found in vascular smooth muscle but can also be expressed in non-vascular cell types, especially in oxidative stress conditions after ischemic insult. Neuroglobin was first observed in neuronal cells, and its expression appears to be restricted mainly to the central and peripheral nervous systems. Brain and central nervous system neurons expressing neuroglobin are positioned close to many arteries within the brain parenchyma and can control smooth muscle contraction and, thus, tissue perfusion and vascular reactivity. Overall, reactions between NO and globin heme-iron contribute to vascular homeostasis by regulating vasodilatory NO signals and scaveging reactive species in cells of the mammalian vascular system. Here, we discuss how globin proteins affect vascular physiology with a focus on NO biology, and offer perspectives for future study of these functions.

Variable and multiple expression of Protease Nexin-1 during mouse organogenesis and nervous system development

Development ◽  
1993 ◽  
Vol 119 (4) ◽  
pp. 1119-1134 ◽  
Author(s):  
I.M. Mansuy ◽  
H. van der Putten ◽  
P. Schmid ◽  
M. Meins ◽  
F.M. Botteri ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Nervous System ◽  
Serine Protease ◽  
Serine Proteases ◽  
Expression Patterns ◽  
Neuronal Cell ◽  
Nervous System Development ◽  
Tissue Homeostasis ◽  
Cell Populations ◽  
Adult Tissues ◽  
Protease Nexin

Protease Nexin-1 (PN-1) also known as Glia-Derived Nexin (GDN) inhibits the activity of several serine proteases including thrombin, tissue (tPA)- and urokinase (uPA)-type plasminogen activators. These and other serine proteases seem to play roles in development and tissue homeostasis. To gain insight into where and when PN-1 might counteract serine protease activities in vivo, we examined its mRNA and protein expression in the mouse embryo, postnatal developing nervous system and adult tissues. These analyses revealed distinct temporal and spatial PN-1 expression patterns in developing cartilage, lung, skin, urogenital tract, and central and peripheral nervous system. In the embryonic spinal cord, PN-1 expression occurs in cells lining the neural canal that are different from the cells previously shown to express tPA. In the developing postnatal brain, PN-1 expression appears transiently in many neuronal cell populations. These findings suggest a role for PN-1 in the maturation of the central nervous system, a phase that is accompanied by the appearance of different forms of PN-1. In adults, few distinct neuronal cell populations like pyramidal cells of the layer V in the neocortex retained detectable levels of PN-1 expression. Also, mRNA and protein levels did not correspond in adult spleen and muscle tissues. The widespread and complex regulation of PN-1 expression during embryonic development and, in particular, in the early postnatal nervous system as well as in adult tissues suggests multiple roles for this serine protease inhibitor in organogenesis and tissue homeostasis.

scholarly journals Localization of phosphotyrosine adaptor protein ShcD/SHC4 in the adult rat central nervous system

2019 ◽  
Vol 20 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Hannah N. Robeson ◽  
Hayley R. Lau ◽  
Laura A. New ◽  
Jasmin Lalonde ◽  
John N. Armstrong ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Central Nervous System ◽  
Nervous System ◽  
Olfactory Bulb ◽  
Adaptor Protein ◽  
Cell Types ◽  
Olfactory Nerve ◽  
Adult Brain ◽  
Specific Cell ◽  
Adult Rat ◽  
Fiber Tracts

Abstract Background Mammalian Shc (Src homology and collagen) proteins comprise a family of four phosphotyrosine adaptor molecules which exhibit varied spatiotemporal expression and signaling functions. ShcD is the most recently discovered homologue and it is highly expressed in the developing central nervous system (CNS) and adult brain. Presently however, its localization within specific cell types of mature neural structures has yet to be characterized. Results In the current study, we examine the expression profile of ShcD in the adult rat CNS using immunohistochemistry, and compare with those of the neuronally enriched ShcB and ShcC proteins. ShcD shows relatively widespread distribution in the adult brain and spinal cord, with prominent levels of staining throughout the olfactory bulb, as well as in sub-structures of the cerebellum and hippocampus, including the subgranular zone. Co-localization studies confirm the expression of ShcD in mature neurons and progenitor cells. ShcD immunoreactivity is primarily localized to axons and somata, consistent with the function of ShcD as a cytoplasmic adaptor. Regional differences in expression are observed among neural Shc proteins, with ShcC predominating in the hippocampus, cerebellum, and some fiber tracts. Interestingly, ShcD is uniquely expressed in the olfactory nerve layer and in glomeruli of the main olfactory bulb. Conclusions Together our findings suggest that ShcD may provide a distinct signaling contribution within the olfactory system, and that overlapping expression of ShcD with other Shc proteins may allow compensatory functions in the brain.

scholarly journals Analysis of Gal4 Expression Patterns in Adult Drosophila Females

2020 ◽  
Vol 10 (11) ◽  
pp. 4147-4158
Author(s):  
Lesley N. Weaver ◽  
Tianlu Ma ◽  
Daniela Drummond-Barbosa
Keyword(s):  
Genetic Manipulation ◽  
Expression Patterns ◽  
Cell Types ◽  
Tissue Expression ◽  
Whole Body ◽  
Specific Gene ◽  
Specific Cell ◽  
Gene Pathway ◽  
Gal4 Expression ◽  
Adult Drosophila

Precise genetic manipulation of specific cell types or tissues to pinpoint gene function requirement is a critical step in studies aimed at unraveling the intricacies of organismal physiology. Drosophila researchers heavily rely on the UAS/Gal4/Gal80 system for tissue-specific manipulations; however, it is often unclear whether the reported Gal4 expression patterns are indeed specific to the tissue of interest such that experimental results are not confounded by secondary sites of Gal4 expression. Here, we surveyed the expression patterns of commonly used Gal4 drivers in adult Drosophila female tissues under optimal conditions and found that multiple drivers have unreported secondary sites of expression beyond their published cell type/tissue expression pattern. These results underscore the importance of thoroughly characterizing Gal4 tools as part of a rigorous experimental design that avoids potential misinterpretation of results as we strive for understanding how the function of a specific gene/pathway in one tissue contributes to whole-body physiology.

Clinical relevance of the neurotrophins and their receptors

2006 ◽  
Vol 110 (2) ◽  
pp. 175-191 ◽  
Author(s):  
Shelley J. Allen ◽  
David Dawbarn
Keyword(s):  
Alzheimer’S Disease ◽  
Alzheimer's Disease ◽  
Nervous System ◽  
Peripheral Nervous System ◽  
Disease Process ◽  
Neuronal Cell ◽  
Cell Types ◽  
Dependent Manner ◽  
Disease States ◽  
Neuronal Tissues

The neurotrophins are growth factors required by discrete neuronal cell types for survival and maintenance, with a broad range of activities in the central and peripheral nervous system in the developing and adult mammal. This review examines their role in diverse disease states, including Alzheimer's disease, depression, pain and asthma. In addition, the role of BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) in synaptic plasticity and memory formation is discussed. Unlike the other neurotrophins, BDNF is secreted in an activity-dependent manner that allows the highly controlled release required for synaptic regulation. Evidence is discussed which shows that sequestration of NGF (nerve growth factor) is able to reverse symptoms of inflammatory pain and asthma in animal models. Both pain and asthma show an underlying pathophysiology linked to increases in endogenous NGF and subsequent NGF-dependent increase in BDNF. Conversely, in Alzheimer's disease, there is a role for NGF in the treatment of the disease and a recent clinical trial has shown benefit from its exogenous application. In addition, reductions in BDNF, and changes in the processing and usage of NGF, are evident and it is possible that both NGF and BDNF play a part in the aetiology of the disease process. This highly selective choice of functions and disease states related to neurotrophin function, although in no way comprehensive, illustrates the importance of the neurotrophins in the brain, the peripheral nervous system and in non-neuronal tissues. Ways in which the neurotrophins, their receptors or agonists/antagonists may act therapeutically are discussed.

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