Abstract
unc-104 encodes a novel kinesin paralog that may act as a microtubule-based motor in the nervous system. Neuronal cell lineages and axonogenesis are normal in unc-104 null mutants, but axons have few synaptic vesicles and make only a few small synapses. By contrast, neuron cell bodies have surfeits of similar vesicles tethered together within the cytoplasm. Based on behavioral and cellular phenotypes, we suggest that UNC-104 is a neuron-specific motor used for anterograde translocation of synaptic vesicles along axonal microtubules. Other membrane-bounded organelles are transported normally.
Publication types
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Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
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Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
MeSH terms
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Adenosine Triphosphatases / genetics*
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Animals
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Axonal Transport
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Axons / physiology*
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Axons / ultrastructure
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Caenorhabditis / genetics
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Caenorhabditis / growth & development
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Caenorhabditis / physiology*
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Cytoplasmic Granules / physiology
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Cytoplasmic Granules / ultrastructure
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Embryo, Nonmammalian
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Fertility
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Genes*
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Kinesins
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Larva
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Microscopy, Electron
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Microtubule Proteins / genetics*
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Movement
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Muscle Contraction
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Mutation
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Neuromuscular Junction / physiology
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Synaptic Vesicles / physiology*
Substances
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Microtubule Proteins
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Adenosine Triphosphatases
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Kinesins