Figure 4. Regulation of growth and metabolism by insulin signaling in C. elegans.

Figure 4Regulation of growth and metabolism by insulin signaling in C. elegans

Nutrients activate signaling by the DAF-2 insulin receptor to inhibit the FOXO-transcription factor DAF-16. This promotes growth and reproduction. Nutrient limitation down regulates signaling through the insulin receptor allowing activation of DAF-16. In an early larval stage, DAF-16 activity promotes dauer formation. In adults, DAF-16 reduces reproductive rate, enhances lifespan and causes fat accumulation. The C. elegans genome encodes numerous insulin-like molecules and those that signal nutritional availability are not known. Activated component of insulin signaling in different contexts of nutrient availability is shown in green.

From: Obesity and the regulation of fat metabolism

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WormBook: The Online Review of C. elegans Biology [Internet].
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