Development of the Drosophila melanogaster embryonic CNS: from neuroectoderm to unique neurons and glia

Abstract The Drosophila embryonic central nervous system (CNS) is a powerful model system for addressing basic mechanisms of nervous system development. Studies during the last three decades have resulted in a detailed description of the basic anatomical features of the CNS, as well as an in-depth understanding of the molecular genetic mechanisms acting to control its development. This has revealed a complex multistep process, from early patterning events to the selection of neural progenitor cells, neuroblasts, with unique identities, onward to lineage progression and the establishment of unique neuronal and glial identities. In this chapter we will review our current understanding of these processes and end by highlighting a number of outstanding issues.