We demonstrate that dWnt4 promotes the somatic encapsulation of the stem cell daughter by regulating adherens junction proteins, thereby promoting differentiation. Here, we have identified that transposons, selfish genetic elements, modulate dWnt4 expression in the somatic cells. While the mechanisms by which these somatic signals regulate stem cell self-renewal is known, how somatic cues regulate differentiation remains unclear. The tissue from which these gametes arise is surrounded by somatic cells, which provide signaling cues required for proper self-renewal and differentiation. We study the ovaries of the female Drosophila, whose stem cell population gives rise to gametes. Drosophila is an excellent model system for stem cell study due to the availability of various mutants, markers and RNAi technology. Insight into how self-renewal and differentiation are regulated will have tremendous therapeutic impact. Loss of either of these processes can lead to aging, progression towards degenerative diseases and cancers. Every multicellular organism is made up of tissues that are maintained by stem cells, due to their capacity to both self-renew and differentiate into terminal cell types.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |