Bennett Germ-line cell lineage decisions using simple roundworms as models of development.
Nematodes are excellent models for cell-lineage studies.
By the 30-cell stage, a single primordial germ cell is determined to become the eggs and sperm. Cytoplasmic P granules, containing proteins and RNA, segregate exclusively with the germ line in C. elegans . Bennett has generated monoclonal antibodies specific for nematode P granules, with the goal of isolating P granule protein genes using these antibodies. Vasa, the gene for one of the components of the germ granules from Drosophila , is a member of a family of RNA binding helicases. Using polymerase chain reaction, her lab has cloned nematode genes for several RNA helicases, including a candidate vasa .