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Abstract
Necessary for functional neural connections are subcellular structures that send out and receive neurotransmitter signals (e.g., axon terminals and dendrites, respectively). Previously, our group showed that dendrite formation occurs precisely at the interaction site between Drosophila anterior corner cell (aCC) motoneuron and its partner, MP1 neuron – mediated by Down syndrome adhesion molecule (Dscam1) on the membrane. However, it is known that dendrites of 36 motoneurons form at unique sites – thus, an ensuing question: does the Dscam1 receptor play a role at other sites where motoneuron dendrites form and if so, how? We address whether neuronal interaction, mediated by Dscam1 receptor, plays a broad role in dendrite formation among motoneurons, using motoneuron 24 (MN24) system due to its distinct location from the aCC-MP1 contact site. The first part of this dissertation identifies the neuronal fascicle as a guiding structure for MN24 neurite development (dendrite formation and axon routing) via Dscam1 signaling; and discusses the implication of Dscam1 function within an individual neuron and among different motoneurons for neural circuitry formation.