The Drosophila protein Wunen repels migrating germ cells
Article Abstract:
The Drosophila protein Wunen guides migrating germ cells by transforming a permissive cellular environment into a repulsive one and by creating in the gut a pattern that guides germ cells into the mesoderm where they eventually migrate into the gonads. Empirical data suggest that the wun is required to drive germ cells to move bilaterally as they enter the mesoderm and that the wun is required for germ cells to differentiate properly and detect subsequent guidance signals. Wunen are theorized to possess enzymatic activity that cause tissues to release a repellant.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 1997
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HMG-CoA reductase guides migrating promordial germ cells
Article Abstract:
Primordial germ cells (PGCs) in many animals and Drosophila, form a separate region of the embryo from the somatic area of the gonad, and migrate to make specific contact with somatic cells in the gonad. A genetic screen for mutations disrupting the process in Drosophila, alleles of the columbus (clb) gene were identified, and on cloning it was found to encode a Drosophila homologue of HMG-CoA reductase. A new cholesterol-independent role for HMG-CoA reductase in control of the developmental process is described.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 1998
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Attractive genetics
Article Abstract:
Researchers have identified and analyzed a gene in the embryos of Drosophila that attracts germ cells as they move to the gonad to mature. The Columbus gene encodes 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase, which has a role in human cholesterol biosynthesis. When it is not expressed in mutant embryos, germ cells do not move towards the gonads.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 1998
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