Engin Özkan

Evolution of NELL binding by dual-ligand-responsive axon guidance receptor Robo

The paper investigates the evolutionary origin of NELL-Robo interactions and shows that dual-ligand responsiveness is conserved in chordates but not protostomes.

Heterophilic interactions between cell-surface proteins Teneurin-m and Capricious drive dendrite segregation in the Drosophila olfactory circuit

The Adhesion GPCR Flamingo-Like 1 (FMIL-1) Directs Synapse Formation in a Nociceptive Circuit

The paper identifies FMIL-1 as a gene that directs synapse formation in a C. elegans nociceptive circuit by promoting connectivity between PVD neurons and PVC/AVA interneurons.

Nematode Extracellular Protein Interactome Expands Connections between Signaling Pathways

The paper reports a C. elegans extracellular interactome dataset, revealing new interactions between signaling pathways and potential roles in human disease mechanisms.

A trans-synaptic IgLON adhesion molecular complex directly contacts and clusters a nicotinic receptor

The paper identifies a novel mechanism for synaptic localization of an AChR through direct interaction with IgLON adhesion molecules in C. elegans.

A dendritic guidance receptor functions in both ligand dependent and independent modes

This study shows that the dendritic guidance receptor DMA-1 functions both ligand-dependently and -independently, promoting stochastic outgrowth and stabilizing stereotyped dendritic morphology.

Structural insights into wiring specificity in the neuromuscular system through the Beat-Side complex

The paper reports the first structure of the Beat-Side complex and shows its role in motor neuron connectivity in Drosophila.

Repulsive interactions instruct synaptic partner matching in an olfactory circuit

The paper identifies three CSP pairs mediating repulsive interactions that prevent non-cognate synaptic connections in Drosophila olfactory circuits.

Neuronal wiring receptors Dprs and DIPs are GPI anchored and this modification contributes to their cell surface organization

This study shows that Drosophila Dpr and DIP proteins are GPI anchored, and this modification is necessary for their cell surface organization and function.

WFIKKN2 is a bifunctional axon guidance cue that signals through divergent DCC family receptors

The paper identifies WFIKKN2 as a bifunctional axon guidance cue that repels sensory axons via Nope and attracts motor axons through other DCC family receptors.

A Progeroid Syndrome Caused by RAF1 deficiency Underscores the importance of RTK signaling for Human Development

A germline RAF1 mutation causes a neonatal lethal progeroid syndrome, highlighting RTK signaling's role in human development.

Molecular and Structural Basis of Olfactory Sensory Neuron Coalescence by Kirrel Receptors

This study presents crystal structures of Kirrel receptors, showing their homodimerization mechanism and its role in axon coalescence into glomeruli in the mouse olfactory system.