Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 12, 2026

Preparation of Developing and Adult Drosophila Brains and Retinae for Live Imaging
Published on: March 16, 2010
The prospero gene specifies cell fates in the Drosophila central nervous system
C Q Doe1, Q Chu-LaGraff, D M Wright
1Department of Cell and Structural Biology, University of Illinois, Urbana 61801.
Abstract:
The molecular mechanisms used to generate neuronal diversity are largely unknown. To identify genes controlling cell fate in the Drosophila central nervous system, we screened for mutations that alter expression of homeobox genes in the developing central nervous system (indicating changes in cell fates). We also screened "enhancer trap" lines to identify genes expressed in neuronal stem cells (neuroblasts). The prospero gene was discovered in both screens. prospero is expressed in a subset of neuroblasts, sensory neuron precursors, and identified glial precursors. It is not expressed in neurons. Neuroblasts lacking prospero function generate abnormal cell lineages, producing incorrectly specified progeny that differentiate into neurons showing axon pathfinding defects. prospero is therefore a novel type of gene expressed in neuroblasts and known to specify neuronal fate.
Related Concept Videos
Pleiotropy
Determination
Position-effect Variegation
The Ratio of X Chromosome to Autosomes
Normal male Drosophila has a ratio of one X chromosome to two sets of autosomes. In contrast, normal female Drosophila...
Genetic Screens
Forward genetic screens
Forward or “classical” genetic screens involve creating random mutations in an organism’s DNA using radiation, mutagens, or insertion of additional bases, which result in visible changes...

