G proteins are required for spatial orientation of early cell cleavages in C. elegans embryos

Article Abstract:

Maternal G proteins were found to play a major role in the orientation of early cell division axes possibly by coupling a membrane signal to centrosome position. The G proteins in the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans were observed to learn about the function of G proteins in vivo and to identify other active elements in the signaling cascade. G beta, which is needed in many developmental stages, is involved in the regulation of behaviors such as locomotion and egg-laying.

Cells (Biology), Cells, G proteins

Playing ping pong with pins: Cortical and microtubule-induced polarity

Article Abstract:

An attempt is made to understand how cells become polarized and how this polarity is communicated and coordinated with cellular functions. It is shown that information does not just flow from the cortex to the inside of the cell but that the spindle also communicates to the cortex to ensure the robust coordination of spindle orientation with cortical polarity.

Microtubules, Genetic research

The C. elegans hook protein, ZYG-12, mediates the essential attachment between the centrosome and nucleus

Article Abstract:

Research examines the role of zyg-12 gene, encoding the hook protein Zyg-12, which is essential for the attachment between the centrosome and nucleus as shown by gene mutation studies. Data indicate that that hook protein is localized in centrosome and nucleus during C. elegans development. Furthermore, Zyg-12 localizes dynein to the nuclear envelope.

United Kingdom, Nucleoproteins, Cell nuclei, Cell nucleus, Centrosomes, Centrosome, Cell anatomy