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Splicing factors control C. elegans behavioural learning in a single neuron by producing DAF-2c receptor

Author

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  • Masahiro Tomioka

    (Molecular Genetics Research Laboratory, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan)

  • Yasuki Naito

    (Molecular Genetics Research Laboratory, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
    Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan)

  • Hidehito Kuroyanagi

    (Laboratory of Gene Expression, Medical Research Institute, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8510, Japan)

  • Yuichi Iino

    (Molecular Genetics Research Laboratory, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
    Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan)

Abstract

Alternative splicing generates protein diversity essential for neuronal properties. However, the precise mechanisms underlying this process and its relevance to physiological and behavioural functions are poorly understood. To address these issues, we focused on a cassette exon of the Caenorhabditis elegans insulin receptor gene daf-2, whose proper variant expression in the taste receptor neuron ASER is critical for taste-avoidance learning. We show that inclusion of daf-2 exon 11.5 is restricted to specific neuron types, including ASER, and is controlled by a combinatorial action of evolutionarily conserved alternative splicing factors, RBFOX, CELF and PTB families of proteins. Mutations of these factors cause a learning defect, and this defect is relieved by DAF-2c (exon 11.5+) isoform expression only in a single neuron ASER. Our results provide evidence that alternative splicing regulation of a single critical gene in a single critical neuron is essential for learning ability in an organism.

Suggested Citation

  • Masahiro Tomioka & Yasuki Naito & Hidehito Kuroyanagi & Yuichi Iino, 2016. "Splicing factors control C. elegans behavioural learning in a single neuron by producing DAF-2c receptor," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 7(1), pages 1-16, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:natcom:v:7:y:2016:i:1:d:10.1038_ncomms11645
    DOI: 10.1038/ncomms11645
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