In Drosophila, genes in the centromere-proximal portion of the bithorax complex (BX-C) have been shown to control the development of the metathorax, and parts of the mesothorax and first abdominal segment. Here, we explore the roles of genes positioned more distally by examining the larval and adult phenotypes caused by a breakpoint and deletion in the middle of the complex. We find that both aberrations affect only abdominal segments, transforming the more anterior segments towards the first abdominal segment, and the remaining segments into a graded series of novel segment types which are partially transformed towards more anterior abdominal segments. Moreover, the adult transformations, which we have observed in somatic clones of mutant cells, are in close accord with the transformations observed in mutant first instar larvae, and appear to be expressed in a cell autonomous fashion. We discuss these results in the light of current views of the organization and function of the complex.
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. You can watch recordings from our Development presents... webinar celebrating the special issue here.
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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