Analyse de l’acquisition de l’identité cellulaire au cours de la myogenèse – MYO-ID

Uncovering how the cell fate-specifying identity genes exert their functions and determine unique properties of cells in a tissue is central to understand the basic rules governing normal and pathological development. However, little is known about cascade of genes operating downstream of identity genes. We have recently identified downstream targets of Drosophila muscle identity gene ladybird. Our data revealed that ladybird controls not only other identity genes but also genes encoding modulators of actin cytoskeleton such as Mp20, Paxilin and M-spondin. The regulation and muscle-specific functions of this categorie of genes have never been analysed. In the present proposal we plan to use power of Drosophila genetics and modern imaging techniques to address this issue. We will also investigate hierarchy of identity genes and the logic of their action during diversification of muscle founders with special focus on a newly identified identity gene CG13424.