Asymmetric division of Drosophila neural progenitors

Abstract

Asymmetric division is a fundamental mechanism for generating cellular diversity. Studies on Drosophila neural progenitors have provided valuable insight into how evolutionarily conserved protein cassettes may be differentially deployed in different developmental contexts to mediate asymmetric divisions. Recent findings also suggest possible mechanisms by which the processes of cell-cycle progression, neuronal lineage development and asymmetric divisions may be integrated.