Functional interaction of beta-catenin with the transcription factor LEF-1

Article Abstract:

Beta-catenin modulates gene expression through interaction with the transcriptional factor, LEF-1 (lymphoid enhancer-binding factor). This interaction provides a molecular mechanism enabling the transmission of signals from cell-adhesion components or wnt protein to the nucleus. Coexpression of beta-catenin and LEF-1 in mammalian cells results in a complex in the nucleus, and a ternary complex with DNA that exhibits an altered DNA bend. LEF-1 injection into Xenopus embryo activates axis duplication, which is inhibited by interaction with beta-catenin.

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A niche for cyanobacteria containing chlorophyll d

Article Abstract:

Photosynthetic activity in cyanobacterium 'Acaryochloris marina'-like phototrophs that live underneath minute coral-reef invertebrates (didemnid ascidians) in a shaded niche enriched in near-infrared light is demonstrated. The cyanobacteria that contain chlorophyll 'd' may thrive in other habitats with little visible light, but further microenvironmental controls may be important in defining the niche of these microorganisms.

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Fluorescent pigments in corals are photoprotective

Article Abstract:

Corals have the ability to either enhance or decrease the amount of light energy received by the photosynthetic algae present on all reef-forming corals. Protection against extremes of light intensity is controlled by the coral's fluorescent pigments.

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