Precise connectivity in neural networks is the basis for our behavior and thought. We are studying genetic and cellular mechanisms underlying neural connectivity in Drosophila melanogaster, which shows variety of learning/memory or other behaviors with a relatively simple nervous system. By combination of molecular genetics and high-resolution imaging analysis, we are tackling following issues.

• Synapse formation: We have identified cell-surface proteins involved in the establishment of specific synaptic connectivity, by ectopic gene-expression screening. Their molecular functions are currently studied in detail.
• Neural lamina formation: Laminar structures are important for the establishment of local neuronal circuits. We are studying gene regulatory mechanism for lamina formation in mushroom bodies, a learning and memory center.
• Signal transduction: Intracellular signaling that transduces the external stimuli to electrical information is a crucial element for neuronal function. We are studying this issue using photoreceptor neurons.

Kurusu, M., Maruyama, Y., Adachi, Y., Okabe, M., Suzuki, E., and Furukubo-Tokunaga, K. (2009). A conserved nuclear receptor, Tailless, is required for efficient proliferation and prolonged maintenance of mushroom body progenitors in the Drosophila brain. Dev. Biol. 326, 224-236.

Kurusu, M,. Cording, A., Taniguchi, M., Menon, K., Suzuki, E., and Zinn, K. (2008). A screen of cell-surface molecules identifies leucinerich repeat proteins as key mediators of synaptic target selection. Neuron 59, 972-985.

Kurusu, M., and Zinn, K. (2008). Receptor tyrosine phosphatases regulate birth order-dependent axonal fasciculation and midline repulsion during development of the Drosophila mushroom body. Mol. Cell Neurosci. 38, 53-65.

Xu, H., Lee, S.-J., Suzuki, E., Dugan K. D., Stoddars, A., Li, H.-S., Chodosh,L.A. and Montell C. (2004) A lysosomal tetraspanin associated with retinal degeneration identified via a genome-wide screen. EMBO J. 23, 811-822.