Abstract
Glia-axon interactions are essential for the development and function of the nervous system. We combine in vivo imaging and genetics to address the mechanism by which the migration of these cells is coordinated during embryonic development. Using stable transgenic lines, we have followed the migration of one subset of glial cells and their target axons in living zebrafish embryos. These cells coalesce at an early stage and remain coupled throughout migration, with axons apparently pathfinding for glia. Mutant analysis demonstrates that axons provide instructive cues that are sufficient to control glial guidance. Furthermore, mutations in the transcription factor Sox10/cls uncouple the migration of axons and glia. Finally, genetic ablation of this glial subtype reveals an essential role in nerve fasciculation.
Publication types
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Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
MeSH terms
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Animals
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Animals, Genetically Modified
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Cell Communication / genetics*
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Cell Differentiation / genetics*
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Cell Movement / genetics*
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Cues
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DNA-Binding Proteins / genetics
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DNA-Binding Proteins / metabolism
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Embryo, Nonmammalian
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Gene Expression Regulation, Developmental / genetics
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Green Fluorescent Proteins
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Growth Cones / metabolism*
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Growth Cones / ultrastructure
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High Mobility Group Proteins / genetics
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High Mobility Group Proteins / metabolism
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Indicators and Reagents / metabolism
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Luminescent Proteins / metabolism
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Neural Crest / cytology
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Neural Crest / embryology*
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Neural Crest / metabolism
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Neuroglia / cytology
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Neuroglia / metabolism*
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Peripheral Nerves / abnormalities
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Peripheral Nerves / cytology
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Peripheral Nerves / metabolism
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Peripheral Nervous System / cytology
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Peripheral Nervous System / embryology*
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Peripheral Nervous System / metabolism
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Repressor Proteins / genetics
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Repressor Proteins / metabolism
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SOXE Transcription Factors
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Stem Cells / cytology
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Stem Cells / metabolism
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Transcription Factors
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Zebrafish / embryology*
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Zebrafish / genetics
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Zebrafish / metabolism
Substances
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DNA-Binding Proteins
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High Mobility Group Proteins
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Indicators and Reagents
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Luminescent Proteins
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Repressor Proteins
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SOXE Transcription Factors
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Transcription Factors
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Green Fluorescent Proteins