In this intriguing episode, we welcome Dr. Efstathiou to discuss his pivotal research on endoplasmic reticulum (ER) homeostasis. The conversation focuses on the endoplasmic reticulum's role in coordinating mRNA translation and processing of secreted and endomembrane proteins. It further explores the mechanisms by which the ER-associated degradation (ERAD) and ER-associated RNA silencing (ERAS) pathways, identified through a genetic screen in Caenorhabditis elegans, interact to preserve ER health and functionality. Dr. Efstathiou explains how these pathways' simultaneous inactivation can lead to increased ER stress, reduced protein quality control, and impaired intestinal integrity. If you're interested in cell biology, molecular genetics or want to understand the intricate workings of our cells better, this episode promises to deliver enlightening insights.

Endoplasmic Reticulum, ERAD, ERAS, RNA Interference, Protein Quality Control, Caenorhabditis elegans, Argonaute Protein, RNA Turnover, ER Stress, Intestinal Integrity.

Efstathiou, S., Ottens, F., Schütter, LS. et al. ER-associated RNA silencing promotes ER quality control. Nat Cell Biol 24, 1714–1725 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41556-022-01025-4