Imaginal discs produce neuropeptide-like precursor 1 to alleviate ER stress in response to warm temperatures

ABSTRACT: In mammals, prolonged heat stress induces an endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress response that can damage internal organs. In Drosophila, larvae grow and develop into adults faster at warmer temperatures (e.g., 30°C) than at lower temperatures, but with reduced body size and fertility. In this study, we show that the neuropeptide gene neuropeptide-like precursor 1 (Nplp1) alleviates temperature-induced ER stress in imaginal discs. Warm temperatures increase production of a specific Nplp1 splice variant that inhibits PKR-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK) activation and cell death. Nplp1 inhibits Dilp8 expression through the PERK/ATF4/Yki pathway, thereby enabling imaginal disc growth and ecdysone homeostasis under warm temperature conditions. These findings provide valuable insights into how animals cope with elevated temperatures.

ORGANISM(S): Drosophila melanogaster

PROVIDER: GSE297273 | GEO | 2025/10/29

REPOSITORIES: GEO