South Korea embraces a new frontier in Neurogenetics: From tool development to feeding, flight, sleep, gut-brain axis, and more
From its humble beginnings, the Drosophila model has evolved to be a powerful tool for probing the intricacies of the nervous system. Drosophila neurogenetics has paved the way for remarkable insights into neural development, behavior, and beyond. In this special collection, we showcase the vibrant discipline of Drosophila neurogenetics in South Korea. This compilation captures the essence of the field's growth, from early studies of neural development to the exploration of cutting-edge topics such as interoceptive nutrient sensing. Drosophila neurogenetics in South Korea has illustrated the cyclical nature of innovation, where new tools have expanded the research horizons. Starting with a focus on neural development, researchers generated an impressive array of genetic tools, from generating astounding 100,000 transposon-induced mutants to archiving GAL4 expression and targeting specific cell types in the gut. This spirit of innovation and adaptability characterizes the evolving landscape of Drosophila neurogenetics in South Korea.
This special collection is structured into five topics, beginning with the mechanisms of neurodegeneration (S. Lee et al., Cha et al., M. Kim et al.), followed by the modulation of sleep (M. Kim et al., H. Lee et al.), then the use of machine learning to interrogate animal behaviors (G. Kim et al., J. Kim et al.), interoceptive nutrient sensing (Jang et al., Yoon et al., Oh and Suh), and finally, development of new reagents to study the gut (Lim et al.). From molecular mechanisms to complex behaviors, the studies featured in this special collection represent the vigor and vitality of Drosophila neurogenetics in South Korea. The findings not only offer exciting new insights but also chart a course for future explorations. As we celebrate the growth of Drosophila neurogenetics, we anticipate that this collection will inspire continued innovation and collaborative endeavors, driving us closer to unlocking the mysteries of the nervous system.
Edited by
Greg S. B. Suh(Department of Biological Sciences KAIST, Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea)
Jing W. Wang(Department of Neurobiology University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA)
Chun-Fang Wu(Department of Biology University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA)