Forward genetic screen to identify genes functioning in winner cells during cell competition. Chang Hyun Lee, Gerard Rimesso, Nicholas Baker. Genetics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY.

   Cell competition is a phenomenon that results from cell-cell interaction that drew interest ever since its first discovery. However, mechanisms that are responsible for this interaction or how otherwise loser cells are distinguished from winner cells in order to trigger it are still poorly defined. A systematic approach to find genes required for this feature should unveil mechanisms that are responsible during this event. We have performed an EMS screen in pursuit genes on chromosome 3R that are required in winner wild type cells to eliminate loser Minute cells. As a result, 26 candidate mutations in 16 complementation groups were isolated. Comparisons of whole genome sequences between mutants and controls is underway to identify the variants responsible for effects on cell competition.