Tau and Futsch play non-neuronal roles in mediating morphogenesis and function of Drosophila Malpighian tubules
Abstract
Malpighian tubules, the renal analogs of vertebrates. dTau depletion by null mutation or RNAi, causes cyst-like expansions, uneven tubule diameters, and epithelial disorganization, phenotypes reminiscent of polycystic kidney disease. These changes are accompanied by cytoskeletal disarray, disrupted cell alignment, and compromised function. We also reveal partial functional redundancy between dTau and Futsch, another microtubule-associated protein, in maintaining tubules architecture. Notably, downregulation of Rho1 partially rescues dTau-associated defects, implicating coordinated function of dTau and Rho1-mediated cytoskeletal function. Our findings expand the known functions of dTau beyond nervous system and provide insights into its role in epithelial organization and tubular morphogenesis.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Genetic and Kidney Cyst Diseases
Microtubule and mitosis dynamics
Renal and related cancers
Publication details
- Journal / source
- iScience
- Publisher
- Elsevier BV
- Volume
- 29
- Issue
- 2
- Pages
- 114737–114737
- Publication date
- 20 January 2026
- Language
- EN