In Worms, Starvation Turns Back the Reproductive Clock (2 of 2) (IMAGE)

American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)

In Worms, Starvation Turns Back the Reproductive Clock (2 of 2)

Caption

The actual process of germline death and regeneration in C. elegans is shown here. In panel A is a normal fed worm at the beginning of sexual maturity, the ovary is outlined in white and mature eggs indicated with an asterisk. In panel B, is a sexually mature adult after 20 days starvation, the ovary is outlined in white. All that remains is a small pocket of stem cells. Panels C and D show restoration of a functional reproductive system. After 24 hours of recovery, the ovary is growing and a mature egg is nearly ready for ovulation. After 72 hours the ovary is fully re-grown and brand new maturing oocytes are being produced. This image relates to an article that appeared in the August 27, 2009, issue of Science Express, published by AAAS. The study, by Dr. G. Angelo at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle, Wash., and colleagues, was titled, "Starvation Protects Germline Stem Cells and Extends Reproductive Longevity in i>C. elegans."

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