Understanding neuronal fusion in nervous system development and remodelling. Neuronal self-fusion, that is, the merging of separate sections of an individual neuron, is a poorly understood biological

Description

Understanding neuronal fusion in nervous system development and remodelling. Neuronal self-fusion, that is, the merging of separate sections of an individual neuron, is a poorly understood biological process. Yet, self-fusion is known to occur in multiple animal species during the development, remodelling, and repair of the nervous system. This project aims to define how developmentally regulated self-fusion occurs in the nervous system, the molecules that mediate this process, and its importance for neuronal function. Expected outcomes include new knowledge on the process of neuronal self-fusion. These findings should provide significant benefits by offering novel insights into nervous system function, and thereby positioning Australia at the intellectual forefront of this innovative and fervent area of research.. Scheme: Discovery Projects. Field: 3101 - Biochemistry and Cell Biology. Lead: Prof Massimo Hilliard