The Caenorhabditis elegans epidermis as a model skin. II: differentiation and physiological roles

摘要: The Caenorhabditis elegans epidermis forms one of the principal barrier epithelia animal. Differentiation begins in mid embryogenesis and involves apical-basal polarization cytoskeletal secretory systems as well cellular junction formation. Secretion external cuticle layers is major developmental physiological specializations epidermal epithelium. four post-embryonic larval stages are separated by periodic moults, which generates a new with stage-specific characteristics. differentiated also plays key roles endocrine signaling, fat storage, ionic homeostasis. intimately associated development function nervous system, may have glial-like modulating neuronal function. provides passive active defenses against skin-penetrating pathogens can repair small wounds. Finally, age-dependent deterioration prominent feature aging affect organismal lifespan.