Abstract
Sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P), a lysophospholipid, plays an important chemotactic role in the migration of lymphocytes and germ cells, and is known to regulate aspects of central nervous system development such as neurogenesis and neuronal migration. Its role in axon guidance, however, has not been examined. We show that sphingosine kinase 1, an enzyme that generates S1P, is expressed in areas surrounding the Xenopus retinal axon pathway, and that gain or loss of S1P function in vivo causes errors in axon navigation. Chemotropic assays reveal that S1P elicits fast repulsive responses in retinal growth cones. These responses require heparan sulfate, are sensitive to inhibitors of proteasomal degradation, and involve RhoA and LIM kinase activation. Together, the data identify downstream components that mediate S1P-induced growth cone responses and implicate S1P signalling in axon guidance.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
