Molecular basis of synaptic specificity by immunoglobulin superfamily receptors in Drosophila.

ABSTRACT: In stereotyped neuronal networks, synaptic connectivity is dictated by cell surface proteins, which assign unique identities to neurons, and physically mediate axon guidance and synapse targeting. We recently identified two groups of immunoglobulin superfamily proteins in Drosophila, Dprs and DIPs, as strong candidates for synapse targeting functions. Here, we uncover the molecular basis of specificity in Dpr-DIP mediated cellular adhesions and neuronal connectivity. First, we present five crystal structures of Dpr-DIP and DIP-DIP complexes, highlighting the evolutionary and structural origins of diversification in Dpr and DIP proteins and their interactions. We further show that structures can be used to rationally engineer receptors with novel specificities or modified affinities,

SUBMITTER: Cheng S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6374074 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature