Spatial regulation of cell adhesion in the Drosophila wing is mediated by Delilah, a potent activator of βPS integrin expression.

In spite of our conceptual view of how differential gene expression is used to define different cell identities, we still do not understand how different cell identities are translated into actual cell properties. The example discussed here is that of the fly wing, which is composed of two main cell types: vein and intervein cells. These two cell types differ in many features, including their adhesive properties.

The proprioceptive and contractile systems in Drosophila are both patterned by the EGR family transcription factor Stripe.

Coordinated locomotion of Drosophila larvae depends on accurate patterning and stable attachment to the cuticle of both muscles and proprioceptors (chordotonal organs). Unlike muscle spindles in mammals, the fly chordotonal organs are not embedded in the body-wall muscles. Yet, the contractile system (muscles and tendons) and the chordotonal organs constitute two parts of a single functional unit that controls locomotion, and thus must be patterned in full coordination.