Drosophila Boi limits Hedgehog levels to suppress follicle stem cell proliferation

• DOI: 10.1083/jcb.201007142
• Publication Date: 2010-11-23T04:14:17Z
• Authors: Tiffiney R. Hartman; Daniel Zinshteyn; Heather K. Schofield; Emmanuelle Nicolas; Ami Okada; Alana M. O'Reilly
• Keywords: Stem cell niche

Stem cells depend on signals from within their microenvironment, or niche, as well factors secreted by distant to regulate maintenance and function. Here we show that Boi, a Hedgehog (Hh)-binding protein, is novel suppressor of proliferation follicle stem (FSCs) in the Drosophila ovary. Hh expressed apical cells, FSC diffuses reach FSCs, where it promotes proliferation. We Boi exerts its suppressive effect binding sequestering cell surface, thereby inhibiting diffusion. Our studies demonstrate local niche can function through ligand sequestration, mechanism likely conserved other epithelial tissues.