Dr Kang is exploring the mechanisms of neuronal remodeling—the means by which the initially over-wired developing nervous system is refined through pruning of selected neuronal processes or elimination of entire (extra) cells.  He uses a variety of molecular-genetic approaches in Drosophila to identify and characterize key signaling pathways mediating neuron-glia signaling during remodeling.  This 5 year grant will support 1-2 years additional training at the Vollum, and then support Dr Kang’s own research group when he transitions to a faculty position.