Yasunori Sasakura

Antenna cells of ascidian larvae are gravity-sensing neurons

This study identifies antenna cells in ascidian larvae as gravity-sensing neurons by ablating them and observing loss of upward swimming behavior.

Possible function of Hox2 in atrial siphon fusion of the ascidian Ciona

This study shows Hox2 is required for atrial siphon fusion in Ciona, with Hox2-knockout animals retaining two siphons and lacking cupular organs.

Establishing genetically controlled, closed 1 colonies of an ascidian

The paper establishes and maintains genetically controlled, closed ascidian colonies to improve experimental reproducibility in non-model organisms.

Neural signaling contributes to heart formation and growth in the invertebrate chordate, Ciona robusta.

The paper shows that neuropeptide tachykinin and Wnt signaling regulate cardiomyocyte progenitor proliferation in Ciona robusta, with neuronal innervation playing a key role.

Gamete release in Ciona robusta: roles of gonadotropin-releasing hormone and the photoreception system

This study identifies distinct roles of GnRH1 and GnRH2 in gamete release and ovarian function in Ciona robusta, revealing the OPO as a photoreceptive organ involved in reproductive regulation.

Tunicate-specific protein Epi-1 is essential for conferring hydrophilicity to the larval tunic in the ascidian Ciona

The paper identifies Epi-1 as a tunicate-specific protein essential for making the larval tunic hydrophilic in Ciona intestinalis, preventing adhesion.

Stimulatory and inhibitory G-protein signaling relays drive cAMP accumulation for timely metamorphosis in the chordate Ciona

The paper identifies stimulatory and inhibitory G-protein signaling relays that regulate cAMP accumulation, ensuring timely metamorphosis in Ciona larvae.

CatSper mediates the chemotactic behavior and motility of the ascidian sperm

This study shows that CatSper is essential for sperm motility and chemotaxis in ascidians, similar to its role in mammals.