A conserved Arf-GEF modulates axonal integrity through RAB-35 by altering neuron-epidermal attachment.

ABSTRACT: Neurites of sensory neurons densely innervate the skin and are embedded within it. These delicate structures are exposed to acute and chronic mechanical strain and yet their integrity is maintained throughout life. Although evidence suggests a neuroprotective role for the skin, the molecular pathways involved are still poorly understood. In C. elegans, the cytoskeletal molecule UNC-70/β-spectrin functions in synergy with the small GTPase RAB-35 within the skin to stabilize neuron-epidermal attachment structures against mechanical strain and prevent movement-induced damage to mechanosensitive axons. However, the full suite of molecules regulating these specialized attachments remains elusive. Here, through an unbiased forward genetic screen we have identified a guanine nucleotide exc

SUBMITTER: Bonacossa-Pereira I 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12258883 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature