LIN-44/Wnt controls developmental neurite pruning via UNC-43/CaMKII and PKC-2/PKC in Caenorhabditis elegans.

Wnt-calcium signaling pathway, involving UNC-43/CaMKII and PKC-2/PKC, is essential for stereotyped neurite pruning in Caenorhabditis elegans, with mutations causing pruning defects.

• Why it matters: Understanding the signaling mechanisms behind developmentally regulated neurite pruning is crucial, as it impacts neural circuit formation and is linked to neurodevelopmental disorders.
• What they did: The study used genetic mutants, calcium imaging, and cross-species experiments to show that lin-44/Wnt, itr-1/IP3 receptor, unc-43/CaMKII, and pkc-2/PKC are involved in neurite pruning, with human CaMKIIA able to induce pruning in worms.
• The result: Findings highlight the role of Wnt-calcium signaling in neurite pruning, providing insights into neural development and potential targets for addressing neurodevelopmental conditions.