Tubgcp3 is a mitotic regulator of planarian epidermal differentiation

Tubgcp3/GCP3 (The centrosomal protein gamma-tubulin complex protein 3) is a component of the gamma-tubulin small complexes (gamma-TuSCs) and gamma-tubulin ring complexes (gamma-TuRCs), which play critical roles in mitotic spindle formation during mitosis. However, its function in stem cell development has not been thoroughly elucidated. The planarian flatworm, which contains a large number of adult somatic stem cells (neoblasts), is a unique model to study stem cell lineage development in vivo. Here, we identified a homolog of Tubgcp3 in planarian Dugesia japonica, and found that Tubgcp3 is required for the maintenance of epidermal lineage. RNAi targeting Tubgcp3 resulted in tissue homeostasis and regeneration defect. Knockdown of Tubgcp3 reduced cell divisions and led to a loss of the mature epidermal cells. Our findings indicate that Tubgcp3 is a mitotic regulator and plays a crucial role in planarian epidermal differentiation.

Automated summary

Tubgcp3 is a crucial mitotic regulator in planarian flatworms, playing a significant role in maintaining epidermal lineage. Knockdown of Tubgcp3 results in reduced cell divisions and loss of mature epidermal cells.