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bioRxiv · 10.64898/2026.02.20.707090

RAB-35 regulates distinct steps of trogocytosis in the biting and bitten cell

Manikas, J.·Popovsky, L.·Abdu, Y.·Nance, J.
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Abstract

Trogocytosis is a form of cellular cannibalism in which a cell "bites" off pieces of another cell. Here, we investigate the molecular mechanisms of a developmentally programmed C. elegans trogocytic event that occurs when endodermal cells bite off and digest pieces of primordial germ cells (PGCs) called lobes. Through a genetic screen, we identify the Rab family small GTPase rab-35 as a central regulator of trogocytosis and show that its function is required in both biting (endodermal) and bitten (PGC) cells. Within endodermal cells, RAB-35 enriches around trogocytosed PGC lobes, promotes the removal of phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2), and is required for lobe digestion. By contrast, we show that RAB-35 within PGCs works with the ESCRT complex to promote scission of the PGC lobe from the cell body. Our findings identify a new regulator of trogocytosis that has distinct functions in the biting and bitten cells and provide evidence that the bitten cell contributes to the scission of its own membrane.

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Manikas, J., Popovsky, L., Abdu, Y., Nance, J.. 2026-02-22. RAB-35 regulates distinct steps of trogocytosis in the biting and bitten cell. https://doi.org/10.64898/2026.02.20.707090

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