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DetectSyn: A Rapid, Unbiased Fluorescent Method to Detect Changes in Synapse Density
Published on: July 22, 2022
Satellite signaling at synapses
Kate M O'Connor-Giles1, Barry Ganetzky
1Laboratory of Genetics, University of Wisconsin - Madison, Madison, Wisconsin 53706, USA. oconnorgiles@wisc.edu
Abstract:
Neural function requires effective communication between neurons and their targets at synapses. Thus, proper formation, growth and plasticity of synapses are critical to behavior. A retrograde (muscle to neuron) BMP signal is required to promote synaptic growth, homeostasis and stability at Drosophila neuromuscular junctions (NMJs).(1-4) We recently demonstrated that this signal constitutes an instructive signal that sculpts synaptic growth in a graded manner and uncovered a presynaptic endocytic mechanism that modulates BMP signaling levels. In the absence of this regulation, excessive BMP signaling results in overgrown NMJs with a proliferation of ectopic boutons.(5).
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