Wnt signaling controls anteroposterior polarity in C. elegans mechanosensory neurons

Abstract

The Wnt family of secreted proteins is responsible for a multitude of developmental processes, often functioning as a morphogen during early development. Here, we address the impact of Wnt signaling on the anteroposterior (AP) polarization of <italic>C. elegans</italic> mechanosensory neurons during embryonic development. We also provide evidence to support a model whereby partially redundant Wnt signals integrate to provide a robust system of checks and balances to ensure the proper polarization of cells along the AP axis.Namely, we found that all five <italic>C. elegans</italic> Wnt genes contribute to the polarization of both the anterior lateral mechanosensory neuron (ALM) and the posterior lateral mechanosensory neuron (PLM). Additionally, we revealed previously unidentified roles for <italic>C. elegans</italic> Wnt receptors in receiving this signal. Lastly, we discovered a partial redundancy shared between the three <italic>C. elegans</italic> disheveled genes in mediating the downstream cellular processes that Wnt signaling controls.