Identification and classification of JIGR1, a novel MADF-containing gene essential for Drosophila development

Abstract

The Drosophila melanogaster model system is capable of providing valuable insight to neurodegenerative disease research. The Drosophila jing zinc finger transcription factor plays an essential role in CNS and tracheal cell differentiation. It is important to identify and characterize jing interactors to better understand its molecular mechanism. The JIGR1 gene was previously identified as a genetic modifier of jing and contains a MADF DNA-binding domain. The MADF domain is found in a large and diverse family with weak sequence homology. JIGR1 was found to genetically interact with other jing-interactors to maintain photoreceptor survival. JIGR1 is predominantly localized to the nuclei and is ubiquitously present throughout all stages of embryogenesis, particularly in the CNS and PNS, suggesting a role in fundamental cellular processes. Proper regulation of JIGR1 dosage is important, as its over-expression is associated with defects in the CNS and tracheal development. By characterizing JIGR1 and having a better concept of jing, with a homolog found in vertebrates, a better understanding of the complex vertebrate developmental pathways is gained.