RRC ID 84088
Author Pooranachithra M, Jyo EM, Brouilly N, Pujol N, Ernst AM, Chisholm AD.
Title C. elegans epicuticlins define specific compartments in the apical extracellular matrix and function in wound repair.
Journal Development
Abstract The apical extracellular matrix (aECM) of external epithelia often contains lipid-rich outer layers that contribute to permeability barrier function. The external aECM of nematodes is known as the cuticle and contains an external lipid-rich layer - the epicuticle. Epicuticlins are a family of tandem repeat cuticle proteins of unknown function. Here, we analyze the localization and function of the three C. elegans epicuticlins (EPIC proteins). EPIC-1 and EPIC-2 localize to the surface of the cuticle near the outer lipid layer, as well as to interfacial cuticles and adult-specific struts. EPIC-3 is expressed in dauer larvae and localizes to interfacial aECM in the buccal cavity. Skin wounding in the adult induces epic-3 expression, and EPIC proteins localize to wound sites. Null mutants lacking EPIC proteins are viable with reduced permeability barrier function and normal epicuticle lipid mobility. Loss of function in EPIC genes modifies the skin blistering phenotypes of Bli mutants and reduces survival after skin wounding. Our results suggest EPIC proteins define specific cortical compartments of the aECM and promote wound repair.
Volume 151(21)
Published 2024-11-1
DOI 10.1242/dev.204330
PII 362260
PMID 39373389
PMC PMC11529277
MeSH Animals Caenorhabditis elegans* / genetics Caenorhabditis elegans* / metabolism Caenorhabditis elegans Proteins* / genetics Caenorhabditis elegans Proteins* / metabolism Extracellular Matrix* / metabolism Larva / metabolism Skin / metabolism Wound Healing* / genetics Wound Healing* / physiology
Resource
C.elegans tm7045