ER stress transforms stochastic olfactory receptor gene choice into stereotypic axon guidance programs
Ontology highlight
ABSTRACT: Olfactory sensory neurons (OSNs) transform the stochastic choice of one out of >1000 olfactory receptor (OR) genes into precise and stereotyped axon targeting of OR-specific glomeruli in the olfactory bulb. Here, we show that the PERK arm of the unfolded protein response (UPR) regulates both the glomerular coalescence of like axons, and the specificity of their projections. Subtle differences in OR protein sequences lead to distinct patterns of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress during OSN development, converting OR identity into distinct gene expression signatures. We identify the transcription factor Ddit3 as a key effector of PERK signaling that maps OR-dependent ER signaling patterns to the transcriptional regulation of axon guidance and cell adhesion genes, instructing targeting precision. Our results extend the known functions of the UPR from a quality control pathway that protects cells from misfolded proteins, to a sensor of cellular identity that interprets physiological states to direct axon wiring.
ORGANISM(S): Mus musculus
PROVIDER: GSE198886 | GEO | 2022/09/26
REPOSITORIES: GEO
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