Molecular Analysis of Gene Expression in the Developing Pontocerebellar Projection System

Abstract

As an approach toward understanding the molecular mechanisms of neuronal differentiation, we utilized DNA microarrays to elucidate global patterns of gene expression during pontocerebellar development. Through this analysis, we identified groups of genes specific to neuronal precursor cells, associated with axon outgrowth, and regulated in response to contact with synaptic target cells. In the cerebellum, we identified a phase of granule cell differentiation that is independent of interactions with other cerebellar cell types. Analysis of pontine gene expression revealed that distinct programs of gene expression, correlated with axon outgrowth and synapse formation, can be decoupled and are likely influenced by different cells in the cerebellar target environment. Our approach provides insight into the genetic programs underlying the differentiation of specific cell types in the pontocerebellar projection system.

The Long Journey of Pontine Nuclei Neurons: From Rhombic Lip to Cortico-Ponto-Cerebellar Circuitry

“…In a gene expression analysis of BPN neurons during development of the pontocerebellar mossy fibers, markers of axon elongation (for example, GAP43) were downregulated during early postnatal period and there was a simultaneous upregulation of synaptic markers (Díaz et al, 2002). The upregulation of synaptic markers is induced by interaction of mossy fibers with granule cells in the cerebellar cortex.…”

Activation of SIRT3 by the NAD+ Precursor Nicotinamide Riboside Protects from Noise-Induced Hearing Loss

“…Removal of neurons from their native environment and culturing them results in altered gene expression relative to neurons in vivo (Diaz et al, 2002). Additionally, Schwann cells and oligodendrocytes can be lost during culturing.…”

Analyzing factorial designed microarray experiments

“…Since we are considering Affymetrix data, the problems with spot and dye effects for cDNA arrays disappear; however, the results of these other authors could be incorporated into the linear model if we had cDNA data. Dı´az et al [9] and Jin et al [29] describe specific multifactor experiments on two-color cDNA arrays, and Wayne and McIntyre [52] describe a two-factor experiment using Affymetrix microarrays for quantitative trait mapping. Our discussion could be viewed as an extension of these other studies, with a substantial shift in focus.…”