ePoster

Characterization of ASD-associated FoxP genes in neural circuit formation

Hanna Yeliseyeva, Martin Müller, Esther Stoeckli
FENS Forum 2024(2024)
Messe Wien Exhibition & Congress Center, Vienna, Austria

Conference

FENS Forum 2024

Messe Wien Exhibition & Congress Center, Vienna, Austria

Resources

Authors & Affiliations

Hanna Yeliseyeva, Martin Müller, Esther Stoeckli

Abstract

FoxP genes have been linked to autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a neurodevelopmental disorder that is associated with aberrant connectivity of neural circuits. There is evidence that mutations in FoxP genes lead to impaired cognition, speech, and motor abilities. The goal of our work is to elucidate and characterize distinct molecular mechanisms with which FoxP genes orchestrate neural circuit formation. As a first step, we characterized the temporal and spatial expression pattern of the FoxP transcription factors. To study their impact on neural circuit assembly, we are using the chicken embryo, a powerful vertebrate model for developmental studies. We use in ovo RNAi to silence FoxP genes in temporally controlled and cell-type specific manner. Our studies demonstrate a role of FoxP transcription factors in the formation of neural circuits in the peripheral nervous system (PNS). For the analysis of the phenotypes, we are utilizing state-of-the-art imaging techniques, including tissue expansion and clearing protocols for light-sheet microscopy. We found aberrant cell migration and axon guidance in the absence of single or combinations of FoxP transcription factors. The aberrant formation of PNS circuits may contribute to the sensory perception anomalies described in some ASD patients.

Unique ID: fens-24/characterization-associated-foxp-genes-84b6ec79