Control of neuronal pathway selection by a Drosophila receptor protein-tyrosine kinase family member

The derailed (drl) gene present in Drosophila encodes the receptor protein-tyrosine kinase Drl which probably controls the selection of pathways by the developing neurons after activation by its ligand. This control is by the regulation of cell adhesion molecules which control the proper fasciculation of axons. The drl gene is expressed in a subset of embryonic interneurons whose growth cones choose similar pathways. These neurons in drl deficient individuals are unable to choose the correct pathways. The Drl protein is similar in structure to the mammalian RYK protein.