Cell-type-specific roles of Na+/K+ ATPase subunits in Drosophila auditory mechanosensation.

ABSTRACT: Ion homeostasis is a fundamental cellular process particularly important in excitable cell activities such as hearing. It relies on the Na(+)/K(+) ATPase (also referred to as the Na pump), which is composed of a catalytic α subunit and a β subunit required for its transport to the plasma membrane and for regulating its activity. We show that α and β subunits are expressed in Johnston's organ (JO), the Drosophila auditory organ. We knocked down expression of α subunits (ATPα and α-like) and β subunits (nrv1, nrv2, and nrv3) individually in JO with UAS/Gal4-mediated RNAi. ATPα shows elevated expression in the ablumenal membrane of scolopale cells, which enwrap JO neuronal dendrites in endolymph-like compartments. Knocking down ATPα, but not α-like, in the entire JO or only in scolopale cells

SUBMITTER: Roy M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3538205 | biostudies-literature | 2013 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature