Sir2 non-autonomously controls differentiation of germline cells in the ovary of Drosophila melanogaster

Abstract

In Drosophila ovary, germline stem cells (GSCs) reside in a somatic cell niche that provides them signals necessary for their survival and development. Escort cells (ECs), one of the constituents of the niche, help in differentiation of GSC daughter cells. Since nutritional state is known to affect oogenesis, we set out to address the role of a metabolic sensor. NAD-dependent Sir2 is known to acts as a regulator of organismal life-span in a diet dependent manner. Our current study reveals that Sir2 in somatic cells is necessary for germline differentiation. Specifically, Sir2 in ECs upregulates Dpp signalling giving rise to tumorous germaria. In addition to this non-autonomous role of Sir2 in regulation of the germline cell homeostasis, we have demonstrated that EC-specific Sir2 has a role in attributing the identity of Cap cells as well as in de-differentiation of germline cells. Our study also shows that a genetic interaction between Sir2 and upd2 is important for the development of germline cells. Thus, we provide novel insights into the role of Sir2 in ovary development.