Synergistic activation by Glass and Pointed promotes neuronal identity in the Drosophila eye disc.

The integration of extrinsic signaling with cell-intrinsic transcription factors can direct progenitor cells to differentiate into distinct cell fates. In the developing Drosophila eye, differentiation of photoreceptors R1-R7 requires EGFR signaling mediated by the transcription factor Pointed, and our single-cell RNA-Seq analysis shows that the same photoreceptors require the eye-specific transcription factor Glass. We find that ectopic expression of Glass and activation of EGFR signaling synergistically induce neuronal gene expression in the wing disc in a Pointed-dependent manner.

The Acoel nervous system: morphology and development.

Acoel flatworms have played a relevant role in classical (and current) discussions on the evolutionary origin of bilaterian animals. This is mostly derived from the apparent simplicity of their body architectures. This tenet has been challenged over the last couple of decades, mostly because detailed studies of their morphology and the introduction of multiple genomic technologies have unveiled a complexity of cell types, tissular arrangements and patterning mechanisms that were hidden below this 'superficial' simplicity.

Listening and responsiveness in getting-acquainted processes.

Listening and being responsive to another's turns at disclosure are essential processes that occur at all stages of a relationship, including and perhaps particularly at the formation stage. This article discusses research on the role of responsiveness and listening in contributing to positive outcomes from getting-acquainted interactions. Integral to listening and responsiveness in the getting-acquainted process is asking questions, which is also discussed in this article.

Memory phase-specific genes in the Mushroom Bodies identified using CrebB-target DamID.

The formation of long-term memories requires changes in the transcriptional program and de novo protein synthesis. One of the critical regulators for long-term memory (LTM) formation and maintenance is the transcription factor CREB. Genetic studies have dissected the requirement of CREB activity within memory circuits, however less is known about the genetic mechanisms acting downstream of CREB and how they may contribute defining LTM phases.