Tau reduction impairs nephrocyte function in Drosophila |
Jiyoung Lee1 (Graduate student), Dayoung Kim2 (Undergraduate student), Sun Joo Cha3 (Researcher), Jang-Won Lee4 (Professor), Eun-Young Lee5 (Professor), Hyung-Jun Kim3 (Professor), Kiyoung Kim 1,* (Professor) |
1Department of Medical Science and 2Department of Medical Biotechnology, Soonchunhyang University, 3Dementia Research Group, Korea Brain Research Institute, 4Department of Integrated Bio-Industry, Sejong University, 5Department of Internal Medicine, Soonchunhyang University Cheonan Hospital |
Abstract
Tau, a microtubule-associated protein, is known for its significant involvement in neurodegenerative diseases. While the presence of Tau in podocytes has been confirmed through various molecular and immunohistochemical techniques, its precise function within these cells remains elusive. In this study, we investigated the role of Tau in kidney podocytes using Drosophila pericardial nephrocytes as a model. Our findings demonstrate that knockdown of Drosophila Tau in nephrocytes resulted in apoptotic cell death and disruption of nephrocyte structure. Furthermore, we observed that decreased Tau levels induced genomic damage and abnormal distribution of ャ-H2Av, altering nuclei architecture in nephrocytes, and affecting the nuclear membrane structure by interfering with lamin with aging. Additionally, Tau knockdown led to a reduction in lipid droplets in Drosophila fat body tissues, suggesting a potential role of Tau in inter-organ communication. These findings underscore the importance of Tau in nephrocytes of Drosophila and advocate for further research to broaden our understanding of podocyte biology in kidney diseases.
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Abstract, Accepted Manuscript [Submitted on April 4, 2024, Accepted on August 2, 2024] |
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