Experimental Neurogenesis in the Embryos of the Gecko Paroedura picta.

This research introduces innovative tools for studying embryonic neurogenesis in the gecko Paroedura picta. Traditional research methods have been adapted for the gecko's unique biology, including variations of birthdating techniques and the implementation of EdU for tracking neuron generation. We also employ hybridization chain reaction (HCR) to detect specific mRNAs without the need for species-specific antibodies, providing a powerful and flexible tool for studying gene expression patterns in the gecko embryonic brain.

Evolutionary convergence of sensory circuits in the pallium of amniotes.

The amniote pallium contains sensory circuits that are structurally and functionally equivalent, yet their evolutionary relationship remains unresolved. We used birthdating analysis, single-cell RNA and spatial transcriptomics, and mathematical modeling to compare the development and evolution of known pallial circuits across birds (chick), lizards (gecko), and mammals (mouse). We reveal that neurons within these circuits' stations are generated at varying developmental times and brain regions across species and found an early developmental divergence in the transcriptomic progression of glutamatergic neurons.