Understanding the Role of PSN in the Neurodevelopment of Drosophila melanogaster
Joshua Rosales, Maria Mendoza
Department of Biology
Faculty Supervisor: Blake Riggs
Asymmetric cell division is essential for the development of multicellular life. Cell-to-cell communication is necessary during development, specifically the Notch signaling pathway, as an extrinsic signal that enables cell differentiation and development. Preliminary studies from our laboratory have found Presenilin (Psn), the catalytic subunit of the γ-secretase complex responsible for the S3 cleavage in the Notch signaling pathway, to be a key interactor with Jagunal (Jagn), an endoplasmic reticulum (ER) transmembrane protein that regulates cell fate differentiation through its role in ER asymmetric distribution. However, it is unclear how Jagn interacts and regulates Psn to drive cell fate determination. We hypothesize that Jagn regulates Psn through intrinsic signals from the ER to the plasma membrane, regulating Psn activity and Notch activation. To determine this, we will examine asymmetric cell division in the central nervous system (CNS) of Drosophila melanogaster. Specifically, we will create a double mutant containing Jagn and Psn to examine effects on early-stage CNS development. Analysis of specific-stage lethality, confocal imaging, and immunohistochemistry targeting neuroblasts and GMCs will follow. Investigating Psn’s highly conserved role will build understanding around the mechanisms in Notch signaling that can lead to neurodegenerative diseases, bridging gaps of knowledge in CNS development.