Abstract
Precise patterning of dendritic arbors is critical for the wiring and function of neural circuits. Dendrite-extracellular matrix (ECM) adhesion ensures that the dendrites of Drosophila dendritic arborization (da) sensory neurons are properly restricted in a 2D space, and thereby facilitates contact-mediated dendritic self-avoidance and tiling. However, the mechanisms regulating dendrite-ECM adhesion in vivo are poorly understood. Here, we show that mutations in the semaphorin ligand sema-2b lead to a dramatic increase in self-crossing of dendrites due to defects in dendrite-ECM adhesion, resulting in a failure to confine dendrites to a 2D plane. Furthermore, we find that Sema-2b is secreted from the epidermis and signals through the Plexin B receptor in neighboring neurons. Importantly, we find that Sema-2b/PlexB genetically and physically interacts with TORC2 complex, Tricornered (Trc) kinase, and integrins. These results reveal a novel role for semaphorins in dendrite patterning and illustrate how epidermal-derived cues regulate neural circuit assembly.
Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Publication types
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Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
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Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
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Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
MeSH terms
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Animals
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Animals, Genetically Modified
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Cell Communication
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Dendrites / physiology*
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Drosophila
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Drosophila Proteins / genetics
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Drosophila Proteins / metabolism*
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Epidermis / physiology*
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Focal Adhesion Kinase 1 / genetics
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Focal Adhesion Kinase 1 / metabolism*
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Gene Expression Regulation, Developmental / genetics*
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Green Fluorescent Proteins / genetics
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Green Fluorescent Proteins / metabolism
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Immunoprecipitation
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Larva
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Mechanistic Target of Rapamycin Complex 2
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Molecular Biology
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Multiprotein Complexes / metabolism
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Mutation / genetics
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Nerve Tissue Proteins / genetics
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Nerve Tissue Proteins / metabolism
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Receptors, Cell Surface / genetics
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Receptors, Cell Surface / metabolism
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Semaphorins / genetics
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Semaphorins / metabolism*
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Sensory Receptor Cells / cytology*
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TOR Serine-Threonine Kinases / metabolism
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Transfection
Substances
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Drosophila Proteins
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Multiprotein Complexes
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Nerve Tissue Proteins
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Receptors, Cell Surface
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Semaphorins
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plexB protein, Drosophila
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Green Fluorescent Proteins
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Fak protein, Drosophila
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Focal Adhesion Kinase 1
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Mechanistic Target of Rapamycin Complex 2
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TOR Serine-Threonine Kinases