TitleNetworks that link cytoskeletal regulators and diaphragm proteins underpin filtration function in Drosophila nephrocytes.
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2018
AuthorsMuraleedharan S, Sam A, Skaer H, Inamdar MS
JournalExp Cell Res
Volume364
Issue2
Pagination234-242
Date Published2018 Mar 15
ISSN1090-2422
Abstract

Insect nephrocytes provide a valuable model for kidney disease, as they are structurally and functionally homologous to mammalian kidney podocytes. They possess an exceptional macromolecular assembly, the nephrocyte diaphragm (ND), which serves as a filtration barrier and helps maintain tissue homeostasis by filtering out wastes and toxic products. However, the elements that maintain nephrocyte architecture and the ND are not understood. We show that Drosophila nephrocytes have a unique cytoplasmic cluster of F-actin, which is maintained by the microtubule cytoskeleton and Rho-GTPases. A balance of Rac1 and Cdc42 activity as well as proper microtubule organization and endoplasmic reticulum structure, are required to position the actin cluster. Further, ND proteins Sns and Duf also localize to this cluster and regulate organization of the actin and microtubule cytoskeleton. Perturbation of any of these inter-dependent components impairs nephrocyte ultrafiltration. Thus cytoskeletal components, Rho-GTPases and ND proteins work in concert to maintain the specialized nephrocyte architecture and function.

DOI10.1016/j.yexcr.2018.02.015
Alternate JournalExp. Cell Res.
PubMed ID29458174
PubMed Central IDPMC5883325