Cas Adaptor Proteins Coordinate Sensory Axon Fasciculation

Sci Rep. 2018 Apr 16;8(1):5996. doi: 10.1038/s41598-018-24261-x.

Abstract

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 regulate fasciculation of DRG 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.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Axon Fasciculation*
  • Crk-Associated Substrate Protein / analysis
  • Crk-Associated Substrate Protein / genetics
  • Crk-Associated Substrate Protein / metabolism*
  • Ganglia, Spinal / growth & development*
  • Ganglia, Spinal / metabolism
  • Ganglia, Spinal / ultrastructure
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Developmental
  • Mice
  • Phosphorylation
  • RNA, Messenger / analysis
  • RNA, Messenger / genetics
  • Spinal Cord / growth & development
  • Spinal Cord / metabolism
  • Spinal Cord / ultrastructure

Substances

  • Bcar1 protein, mouse
  • Crk-Associated Substrate Protein
  • RNA, Messenger