The adult abdominal muscles in Drosophila are generated de novo during metamorphosis and form a simple and characteristic pattern. Throughout adult abdominal development there is a close association between nerves and myoblasts. However, the role of innervation in adult myogenesis is unclear. In males there is an additional muscle, which is unique to abdominal segment 5 (A5). This male specific muscle forms from the same pool of myoblasts as other dorsal muscles in A5 but develops several distinctive characteristics. Previous work indicates the genotype of the innervation of this male specific muscle may play a crucial role in its proper development, although the part played by innervation in the development of other muscles is unknown. Here we test directly the function of innervation in adult myogenesis in general and for the development and differentiation of the male specific muscle in particular. After denervation at the onset of metamorphosis, muscle growth is impaired although the overall muscle pattern continues to develop. Uniquely, the male specific muscle fails to form. Our results indicate that there is an essential role for innervation during the period of metamorphosis for the formation of a full complement of abdominal muscles and for muscle growth. Furthermore, innervation is absolutely required for the formation of the male specific muscle and the development of its special characteristics.
Development Journal Meeting 2022: From Stem Cells to Human Development
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Following a virtual meeting in 2020, we are delighted to announce that the fifth iteration of our popular Journal Meeting will be held from 11-14 September 2022 at the historic Wotton House, Surrey. Registration is open now.
Special Issue: The Immune System in Development and Regeneration
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Our latest special issue is now complete. It showcases articles that add to the repertoire of immune cell functions during development, repair and regeneration, and provide insights into the developmental pathways leading to the generation and dispersal of these cells.
Propose a new Workshop
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Our Workshops bring together leading experts and early-career researchers from a range of scientific backgrounds. Applications are now open to propose Workshops for 2024, one of which will be held in a Global South country.
Preprints in Development
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As part of our efforts to support the use of preprints and help curate the preprint literature, we are delighted to launch a new article type: ‘In preprints’. These pieces will discuss one or more recent preprints and place them in a broader context. You can read the first article here.
FocalPlane Network launched
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Like the Node Network, the aim of the FocalPlane Network is to facilitate promotion and networking as well as assist those seeking conference speakers, committee members, reviewers or collaborators. We hope that it will help promote diversity in the community. Find out more and join the Network here.
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