Codes and source data files for: Proximity labeling identifies LOTUS domain proteins that promote the formation of perinuclear germ granules in C. elegans

The germ line produces gametes that transmit genetic and epigenetic
information to the next generation. Maintenance of germ cells and
development of gametes require germ granules—well-conserved membraneless
and RNA-rich organelles. The composition of germ granules is elusive owing
to their dynamic nature and their exclusive expression in the germ line.
Using C. elegans germ granule, called P granule, as a model system, we
employed a proximity-based labeling method in combination with mass
spectrometry to comprehensively define its protein components. This set of
experiments identified over 200 proteins, many of which contain
intrinsically disordered regions. An RNAi-based screen identified factors
that are essential for P granule assembly, notably EGGD-1 and EGGD-2, two
putative LOTUS-domain proteins. Loss of eggd-1 and eggd-2 results in
separation of P granules from the nuclear envelope, germline atrophy and
reduced fertility. We show that intrinsically disordered regions of EGGD-1
are required to anchor EGGD-1 to the nuclear periphery while its LOTUS
domains are required to promote perinuclear localization of P granules.
Together, our work expands the repertoire of P granule constituents and
provides new insights into the role of LOTUS-domain proteins in germ
granule organization.