NHR-23 activity is necessary for C. elegans developmental progression and apical extracellular matrix structure and...

Area of Science:

• Developmental Biology
• Molecular Biology
• Cell Biology

Background:

• Nematode molting involves the continuous shedding and regeneration of the apical extracellular matrix (aECM).
• The nuclear hormone receptor NHR-23 (NR1F1) is a known regulator of molting in *C. elegans*.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the role of NHR-23 in coordinating aECM regeneration during nematode molting.
• To elucidate the cellular and molecular mechanisms by which NHR-23 regulates cuticle formation.

Main Methods:

• Tissue-specific RNA interference (RNAi) was used to deplete NHR-23 in *C. elegans* epidermal cells.
• Reporter gene assays (nas-37 promoter) and analysis of cuticle collagen and protein localization (ROL-6, NOAH-1, BLI-1) were performed.

Main Results:

• NHR-23 depletion in seam and hypodermal cells caused severe developmental delay and lethality.
• NHR-23 regulates the expression and oscillation of genes involved in molting and aECM remodeling, including nas-37.
• Depletion led to aberrant localization and disorganization of cuticle collagens and zona pellucida proteins, compromising the cuticle barrier.

Conclusions:

• NHR-23 plays a critical role in seam and hypodermal cells for coordinating aECM regeneration during development.
• NHR-23 is essential for proper cuticle structure, organization, and barrier function.
• This study provides insights into the molecular mechanisms governing nematode cuticle development and integrity.