This study determines the structure of the LPD-3 BLTP complex and reveals its mechanism for bulk lipid transfer through interactions with Intake and Spigot proteins.

Nature · Apr 23, 2025Peer-reviewedBiochemistry

Astrocyte-dependent local neurite pruning and Hox gene-mediated cell death in Beat-Va neurons

Katherine S. Lehmann, Madison T Hupp, Amanda Jefferson, Ya-Chen Cheng, Amy E. Sheehan, Yunsik Kang, Marc R Freeman

The paper identifies two neuronal subtypes in Drosophila that undergo distinct remodeling processes during metamorphosis, highlighting astrocyte-dependent pruning and Hox gene-mediated cell death.

bioRxiv · Dec 5, 2023 · PreprintNeuroscience

Tweek-dependent formation of ER-PM contact sites enables astrocyte phagocytic function and remodeling of neurons

Yunsik Kang, Amanda Jefferson, Amy E. Sheehan, Rachel De La Torre, Taylor R. Jay, Lucia J. Chiao, Alexandria L. Hulegaard, Megan M. Corty, Isabelle Baconguis, Zheng Zhou, Marc R. Freeman

This study shows Tweek is essential for astrocyte phagocytosis and ER-PM contact formation during neuronal remodeling in Drosophila.

bioRxiv · Nov 6, 2023 · PreprintNeuroscience

An ELISA-based method for rapid genetic screens in Drosophila

Taylor R. Jay, Yunsik Kang, Amanda Jefferson, Marc R. Freeman

The paper develops a GFP-based ELISA assay for rapid, quantitative genetic screens in Drosophila, identifying Syntaxins as novel regulators of astrocyte-mediated synapse elimination.

Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences · Oct 22, 2021Peer-reviewedNeuroscience