Tau reduction impairs nephrocyte function in Drosophila

Abstract

Tau, a microtubule-associated protein, is known for its significantinvolvement in neurodegenerative diseases. While variousmolecular and immunohistochemical techniques have confirmedthe presence of Tau in podocytes, its precise function withinthese cells remains elusive. In this study, we investigate the roleof Tau in kidney podocytes using Drosophila pericardial nephrocytesas a model. We found that knockdown of DrosophilaTau in nephrocytes resulted in apoptotic cell death and the disruptionof nephrocyte structure. Furthermore, we observed thatdecreased Tau levels induced genomic damage and abnormaldistribution of –H2Av, altering nuclei architecture in nephrocytes,and affecting the nuclear membrane structure by interferingwith lamin with aging. Additionally, Tau knockdown led to areduction in lipid droplets in Drosophila fat body tissues,suggesting a potential role of Tau in inter-organ communication. These findings underscore the importance of Tau in the nephrocytesof Drosophila, and advocate further research to broadenour understanding of podocyte biology in kidney diseases.