Drosophila TRPN(=NOMPC) channel localizes to the distal end of mechanosensory cilia.

ABSTRACT:

Background

A TRPN channel protein is essential for sensory transduction in insect mechanosensory neurons and in vertebrate hair cells. The Drosophila TRPN homolog, NOMPC, is required to generate mechanoreceptor potentials and currents in tactile bristles. NOMPC is also required, together with a TRPV channel, for transduction by chordotonal neurons of the fly's antennal ear, but the TRPN or TRPV channels have distinct roles in transduction and in regulating active antennal mechanics. The evidence suggests that NOMPC is a primary mechanotransducer channel, but its subcellular location-key for understanding its exact role in transduction-has not yet been established.

Methodology/principal findings

Here, by immunostaining, we locate NOMPC at the tips of mechanosensory cilia in b

SUBMITTER: Lee J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2882365 | biostudies-literature | 2010 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature