The genetic control of brain development

Objective

Primary regional organisation of the vertebrate brain is specified by gene cascades, which reactivated during early embryogenesis. Identities of different brain regions are partly defined by gene families having similar functions in Drosophilae and vertebrates, indicating regulatory mechanisms that are strongly conserved in evolution. Despite fragmentary knowledge about different aspects of early neural development, there is not yet an integrated picture of the regulatory cascades which set-up the primary organisation of the brain. This is a central unsolved problem in the neurosciences. The proposed programme coordinates the complementary expertises of six specialist groups to elucidate mechanisms underlying development of different brain regions and determine how their construction is coordinated. We expect that these investigations will provide a solid basis for understanding how the brain is built and how its organisation is disturbed by genetic disease.

Programme(s)

• FP5-LIFE QUALITY - Specific Programme for research, technological development and demonstration on "Quality of life and management of living resources", 1998-2002

Topic(s)

• 1.1.1.-9. - Neurosciences

Funding Scheme

Coordinator

Participants (5)