Wolbachia utilizes host microtubules and Dynein for anterior localization in the Drosophila oocyte.

ABSTRACT: To investigate the role of the host cytoskeleton in the maternal transmission of the endoparasitic bacteria Wolbachia, we have characterized their distribution in the female germ line of Drosophila melanogaster. In the germarium, Wolbachia are distributed to all germ cells of the cyst, establishing an early infection in the cell destined to become the oocyte. During mid-oogenesis, Wolbachia exhibit a distinct concentration between the anterior cortex and the nucleus in the oocyte, where many bacteria appear to contact the nuclear envelope. Following programmed rearrangement of the microtubule network, Wolbachia dissociate from this anterior position and become dispersed throughout the oocyte. This localization pattern is distinct from mitochondria and all known axis determinants. Manipulat

SUBMITTER: Ferree PM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC1253842 | biostudies-literature | 2005 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature