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Updated: Aug 12, 2026

Determining Genetic Expression Profiles in C. elegans Using Microarray and Real-time PCR
Published on: July 30, 2011
The VAB-1 Eph receptor tyrosine kinase and SAX-3/Robo neuronal receptors function together during C. elegans
Simona Ghenea1, Jeffrey R Boudreau, Nicholas P Lague
1Department of Biology, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario K7L 3N6, Canada.
Abstract:
Mutations that affect the single C. elegans Eph receptor tyrosine kinase VAB-1 cause defects in cell movements during embryogenesis. Here, we provide genetic and molecular evidence that the VAB-1 Eph receptor functions with another neuronal receptor, SAX-3/Robo, for proper embryogenesis. Our analysis of sax-3 mutants shows that SAX-3/Robo functions with the VAB-1 Eph receptor for gastrulation cleft closure and ventral epidermal enclosure. In addition, SAX-3 functions autonomously for epidermal morphogenesis independently of VAB-1. A double-mutant combination between vab-1 and slt-1 unmasks a role for the SLT-1 ligand in embryogenesis. We provide evidence for a physical interaction between the VAB-1 tyrosine kinase domain and the juxtamembrane and CC1 region of the SAX-3/Robo receptor. Gene dosage, non-allelic non-complementation experiments and co-localization of the two receptors are consistent with a model in which these two receptors form a complex and function together during embryogenesis.
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