pac-1 enhances Ras-Raf-Erk Signaling in C.elegan Vulval Cell Fate Patterning

Abstract

The Ras-Raf-Erk signaling pathway is essential for proper vulva development in C.elegans and proper response to stimuli in human cells. The importance of the conservation of these pathways shows how vulva development and cancer cells function like each other. The effect of Ras-Raf-Erk signaling in vulva development was examined by targeting pac-1 with RNAi and then quantifying the number of vulva protrusions. The results from the experiment showed that the loss of pac-1 inhibits ERK signaling in vulva development by decreasing the amount of vulva protrusions. This determined that normally pac-1 increases ERK signaling in vulva development. The Ras-Raf-Erk pathway is activated in cancer and further understanding of the targets of this pathway will help us better understand how cancer develops.