Role of the gonad cytoplasmic core during oogenesis of the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans

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Abstract
In order to elucidate the function of the cytoplasmic core (or rachis: a structure specific of the nematode gonads), a cytological study of this structure was made in the free-living nematode C. elegans, in wild-type and in several mutant strains showing an abnormal gametogenesis. An ultrastructural radioautographic study of RNA synthesis was made during oogenesis in order to examine the part played by the rachis in the transport of nutritive substances. A metabolite transfer from the germ cells to the cytoplasmic core was demonstrated. The core probably has a trophic role linked to oogenesis. A statistical analysis of silver grain distribution suggested that there is no accumulation of RNA labeling in any part of the cytoplasmic core. Studies performed on sterile mutant strains suggest that the cytoplasmic core may have a specific function in oogenesis determination.