The Adhesive Dance: Neurite Placement and Circuit Formation with Dr. Titas Sengupta

In an engaging conversation with Dr. Titas Sengupta, we delve into the intricate processes guiding the placement of neurites in specific neural layers during brain development. Utilizing groundbreaking imaging techniques and advanced quantitative models, Dr. Sengupta unveils his findings on the embryonic development of the C. elegans brain neuropil. At the core of this exploration lies the profound role of differential adhesion, orchestrated by the interaction between IgCAM SYG-1 and its ligand partner, SYG-2. Rather than the anticipated outgrowth method, neurites are found to employ a unique "retrograde zippering" mechanism, which governs their precise placement. Through this study, Dr. Sengupta bridges the realm of biophysics with neural development, offering fresh perspectives on how synaptic specificity is achieved in the developing brain.Keywords:NeuritesSynaptic specificityC. elegans brain neuropilDifferential adhesionIgCAM SYG-1SYG-2Retrograde zipperingNeural developmentCircuit formationBiophysical principlesNeurite placement.https://doi.org/10.7554/eLife.71171.sa0