FMI News Article
The protection of genome integrity of germ cells is essential for animal fertility. Researchers from the Grosshans group characterized a defense mechanism against selfish genetic elements in the C. elegans germline. They identified a protein processing mechanism that controls the activity of small RNAs to achieve specific silencing of transposons while sparing endogenous genes.
When two worlds meet: a protease that controls small RNA activity
DIC microscopy images of wild-type (top) and dpf-3 mutant (bottom) worms. Arrowhead indicate embryo, arrow indicate unfertilized oocytes in the uterus.