Adhesion and signaling between neurons and glial cells in Drosophila

Trans-cellular communication relies on a complex interplay of cell-cell adhesion and signaling induced by diffusible molecules. This is particularly evident for neuron-glia interaction in the nervous system. The small, relative number of glial cells in combination with well-established genetic techniques predestines Drosophila as a powerful model to dissect the molecular basis of neuron-glia interaction. We are discussing homophilic and heterophilic adhesion systems that ensure proper interaction of neurons and glial cells as well as prominent signaling cascades regulating various aspects of coordinated neuron-glial development. The combination of these results in instructive signals governing proper nervous system development and function.