Celf1 regulation of dmrt2a is required for somite symmetry and left-right patterning during zebrafish development

作者：Matsui Takaaki^*; Sasaki Akihiro; Akazawa Naoko; Otani Hifumi; Bessho Yasumasa

来源：Development, 2012, 139(19): 3553-3560.

DOI：10.1242/dev.077263

• RNA-binding protein
• Post-transcriptional regulation
• Symmetric somitogenesis
• Left-right patterning
• Target protector morpholino
• Zebrafish

RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) bind to numerous and diverse mRNAs to control gene expression post-transcriptionally, although the in vivo functions of specific RBP-mRNA interactions remain largely unknown. Here, we show that an RBP named Cugbp, Elav-like family member 1 (Celf1) controls expression of a gene named doublesex and mab-3 related transcription factor 2a (dmrt2a), which is essential for somite symmetry and left-right patterning during zebrafish development. Celf1 promotes dmrt2a mRNA decay by binding to UGU repeats in the 3%26apos;UTR of dmrt2a mRNA such that celf1 overexpression reduces the amount of dmrt2a mRNA, leading to asymmetric somitogenesis and laterality defects. Furthermore, blocking the Celf1-dmrt2a mRNA interaction by a target protector morpholino alleviates failures in somite symmetry and left-right patterning that are caused by celf1 overexpression. Our results therefore demonstrate that Celf1-dependent fine-tuning of dmrt2a expression is essential for generating bilateral symmetry of somites and left-right asymmetric patterning during zebrafish development.

• 出版日期2012-10-1