Linking nociception and gene regulation in C. elegans neuroendocrine cells

• Research unit: COST
• Project number: C16.0013

Key words (English)

Caenorhabditis elegans; Behavior; Neuroscience; Transcription factor; PAB-1; DamID; RIP-seq; RNAi

Research programs (English)

COST-Action BM1408 - GENiE, A collaborative European network of C. elegans early-stage researchers and young principal investigators

Short description (English)

Nociception is the process of detecting and encoding noxious stimuli in the nervous system. It underlies responses such as pain, an important medical concern. In this project, we will use a powerful genetic model, C. elegans, to explore a novel molecular mechanism that tunes nociception. Recently, we have discovered that the C. elegans CREB homolog-1 (CRH-1) transcription factor has an important role in neuroendocrine cells to control thermal nociception and resulting avoidance behavior. This finding offers an entry point to address the link between neuroendocrine functions and nociception, about which we know very little. The objectives of the project are: (i) to identify the target genes of CRH-1 in neuroendocrine cells of C. elegans, and (ii) to determine which targets mediate the impact of CRH-1 on nociception. To reach these goals, we will apply cutting edge cell-specific RIP-seq and DamID methods to identify relevant CRH-1 targets. These targets will be further characterized by a combination of RNAi-mediated knock-down and genetic rescue experiments. This project is made possible by the expert methodological know-how available within the COST-supported GENiE network. Altogether, the project will provide critical new information on a previously unsuspected signaling mechanism controlling nociception. Since CREB signaling pathway is functionally conserved from C. elegans to human, this research will also provide cues for novel therapeutic strategies in pain management.

Partners and International Organizations (English)

AT; BE; CZ; DK; FI; FR; DE; EL; HU; IL; NL; NO; PL; PT; ES; SE; TR; UK; HR

Abstract (English)

See short description

References in databases (English)

Swiss Database: COST-DB of the State Secretariat for Education and Research Hallwylstrasse 4 CH-3003 Berne, Switzerland Tel. [phone] Swiss Project-Number: C16.0013