A joint research team from Kyushu University and the University of Tokyo said recently that they used a nematode about 1 mm in length to successfully see the changes in proteins in living organisms for the first time.
Researchers such as Guangjin Chongliang, an assistant professor at Kyushu University, studied the Ras protein responsible for transmitting odor signals in the olfactory nerve of the nematode head. Through genetic manipulation, they introduced a molecule whose luminous color changes according to the state of Ras protein into the olfactory nerve cells of the nematode. This molecule emits yellow fluorescence after the Ras protein is activated, and emits blue light when not activated.
The researchers applied an odor stimulus to the nematodes and photographed the glow of fluorescent molecules. As a result, it was found that Ras protein was activated immediately after the stimulus was applied, and peaked in activity after about 3 seconds, and then returned to the inactive state.
The researchers used an odorous substance produced by E. coli when applying the stimulus. This E. coli is food for nematodes. Previous studies have shown that when searching for food, the nematode will swing its head about every 3 seconds and move in the direction of strong smell. The researchers therefore believe that Ras protein is involved in controlling this action.
Ras proteins are a class of proteins that can bind to guanosine triphosphate and participate in signal transduction in cells. Since these proteins are also found in mammals, the researchers believe that this discovery will become a clue to the olfactory information transmission mechanism of higher organisms. In addition, because these proteins are also associated with the onset of many diseases such as cancer and heart disease, this achievement will also promote related medical research.
Related papers were published on the 9th of the British online scientific magazine "Science Report".
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