Biology ETDs
Publication Date
Fall 11-12-2024
Abstract
The successful establishment of functional neural circuits depends on the timing of wiring programs, including gene expression and neural activity. Both vertebrates and invertebrates use spatio-temporal patterning to generate neuronal diversity, allowing progenitors to express genes variably to determine cell fates. Recent single-cell transcriptomic studies have provided insights into the transcriptional dynamics of neurogenesis in Drosophila and mammalian central nervous systems (CNS).
In Drosophila, temporal transcription factor cascades establish neuron birth order in the central brain, optic lobe, and embryonic CNS. Type II neural stem cells (NSCs) in Drosophila generate intermediate progenitors (INPs), both expressing temporally regulated genes; and populate the adult central complex-the brain region associated with higher order behaviors. I found that RNA-binding protein, Imp, expressed in Type II NSCs, regulates neuron specification in the adult olfactory navigation circuit and influences behavior (Chapter2). Temporal patterning in INPs also regulates fate specification of central complex neurons, suggesting a combinatorial temporal code during development (Chapter 3).
In addition to gene expression, activity has been observed throughout the developing CNS in mammals, the retinal waves being the best characterized example. By contrast, brain development in invertebrates has been thought to occur largely independent of activity. Recent studies show spontaneous activity in the pupal Drosophila visual system aids synapse formation. I demonstrate that activity in the Drosophila compass network emerges during mid-pupal stages, evolving into adult-specific “bump” activity patterns as the circuit matures.
My dissertation examines the developmental programs—gene expression and neural activity—that shape the adult Drosophila central complex.
Language
English
Keywords
Drosophila, Central Complex, Olfaction, Navigation, Development, Neural Activity, Ring attractors, Head-direction system
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Biology
Level of Degree
Doctoral
Department Name
UNM Biology Department
First Committee Member (Chair)
Dr. Mubarak Hussain Syed
Second Committee Member
Dr. Christopher Johnston
Third Committee Member
Dr. Benjamin Clark
Fourth Committee Member
Dr. Katherine Nagel
Recommended Citation
Hamid, Aisha. "Developmental programs regulating the specification and function of neural circuits in the Drosophila central complex." (2024). https://digitalrepository.unm.edu/biol_etds/615
