The prion domain forms biophysically and morphologically distinct aggregate types.

Abstract

<p>(A) FRAP analysis of the indicated transgenic animals revealed mobile and immobile aggregate types that were grouped into two categories (see text). Aggregate mobility in animals expressing NMm::YFP and R2E2m::YFP correlated with a certain aggregate morphology. Roman numbers next to the FRAP graphs refer to representative foci (or diffuse staining pattern in case of RΔ2-5) that are shown to the right of each graph. Arrows indicate bleached ROI. The YFP only control is shown in yellow. RFI = relative fluorescence intensity in [%]. (B, C) Collapsed confocal z-stack images of R2E2m::YFP expressing transgenic <i>C. elegans</i>. (B) Aggregate shapes differed between muscle cells within one animal. (C) Aggregate types differed between the same cells of different animals. Arrows highlight fibril-like aggregates. Scale bars: 10 µm.</p