PT  - JOURNAL ARTICLE
AU  - Tyler A. Vahedi-Hunter
AU  - Martin M. Riccomagno
TI  - Cas Adaptor Proteins Coordinate Sensory Axon Fasciculation
AID  - 10.1101/159194
DP  - 2017 Jan 01
TA  - bioRxiv
PG  - 159194
4099  - http://biorxiv.org/content/early/2017/07/03/159194.short
4100  - http://biorxiv.org/content/early/2017/07/03/159194.full
AB  - Development of complex neural circuits like the peripheral somatosensory system requires intricate mechanisms to ensure axons make proper connections. While much is known about ligand-receptor pairs required for dorsal root ganglion (DRG) axon guidance, very little is known about the cytoplasmic effectors that mediate cellular responses triggered by these guidance cues. Here we show that members of the Cas family of cytoplasmic signaling adaptors are highly phosphorylated in central projections of the DRG as they enter the spinal cord. Furthermore, we provide genetic evidence that Cas proteins act DRG-autonomously to promote fasciculation of sensory projections. These data establish an evolutionarily conserved requirement for Cas adaptor proteins during peripheral nervous system axon pathfinding. They also provide insight into the interplay between axonal fasciculation and adhesion to the substrate.