FoxO regulates microtubule dynamics and polarity to promote dendrite branching in Drosophila sensory neurons.

ABSTRACT: The size and shape of dendrite arbors are defining features of neurons and critical determinants of neuronal function. The molecular mechanisms establishing arborization patterns during development are not well understood, though properly regulated microtubule (MT) dynamics and polarity are essential. We previously found that FoxO regulates axonal MTs, raising the question of whether it also regulates dendritic MTs and morphology. Here we demonstrate that FoxO promotes dendrite branching in all classes of Drosophila dendritic arborization (da) neurons. FoxO is required both for initiating growth of new branches and for maintaining existing branches. To elucidate FoxO function, we characterized MT organization in both foxO null and overexpressing neurons. We find that FoxO directs MT organi

SUBMITTER: Sears JC 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5045711 | biostudies-literature | 2016 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature