Germline Stem Cell Heterogeneity Supports Homeostasis in Drosophila

Stem Cell Reports. 2018 Jul 10;11(1):13-21. doi: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2018.05.005. Epub 2018 Jun 7.

Abstract

Adult and embryonic stem cells exhibit fluctuating gene expression; however, the biological significance of stem cell heterogeneity is not well understood. We show that, in Drosophila, female germline stem cells (GSCs) exhibit heterogeneous expression of a GSC differentiation-promoting factor Regena (Rga). The Drosophila homolog of human SON, dsn, is required to maintain GSC heterogeneity by suppressing sustained high levels of Rga. Reducing the expression of Rga in dsn mutants restores GSC heterogeneity and self-renewal. Thus, GSC heterogeneity is linked to GSC homeostasis.

Keywords: CG8273; Drosophila; Dsn; Regena; differentiation; germline stem cell; heterogeneity; homeostasis; self-renewal.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Biomarkers
  • Cell Cycle Proteins / genetics
  • Cell Cycle Proteins / metabolism
  • Cell Differentiation
  • Cell Self Renewal
  • Drosophila / physiology*
  • Drosophila Proteins / genetics
  • Drosophila Proteins / metabolism
  • Female
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Developmental
  • Germ Cells / cytology*
  • Germ Cells / metabolism*
  • Homeostasis*
  • Repressor Proteins / genetics
  • Repressor Proteins / metabolism

Substances

  • Biomarkers
  • Cell Cycle Proteins
  • Drosophila Proteins
  • RGA protein, Drosophila
  • Repressor Proteins