Schreier_et_al_2025_A_genetic_framework_for_RNAi_inheritance_in_Caenorhabditis_elegans

ABSTRACT: Gene regulation by RNA interference (RNAi) is a conserved process driven by double-stranded RNA (dsRNA). It responds to exogenous cues and drives endogenous gene regulation. In Caenorhabditis elegans, RNAi can be inherited from parents to offspring. While a number of factors have been implicated in this inheritance process, we do not understand how and when they function. Using a new inheritance assay, we establish a hierarchy amongst previously identified inheritance factors. The nuclear Argonaute protein HRDE-1 was required for RNAi establishment in parents and offspring, but not for the inheritance process. In contrast, the cytoplasmic Argonaute protein WAGO-3 was the only factor essential for inheritance, via sperm and oocyte, while not affecting establishment in either parent or offspring. We propose a cycle between nuclear and cytoplasmic Argonaute proteins, where nuclear activity drives most of the silencing and cytoplasmic activity ensures inheritance. Finally, we implicate the RNA helicase ZNFX-1 as a factor that links the inherited WAGO-3 protein to nuclear RNAi in the offspring.

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PROVIDER: S-BIAD1922 | bioimages |

REPOSITORIES: bioimages