multiple RNA processing factors involved in piRNAmediated gene silencing in C. elegans

To identify novel piRNA pathway members, we have utilized a sensitized reporter strain which detects defects in initiation, amplification, or regulation of piRNA silencing. Using our reporter, we have identified Integrator complex subunits, nuclear pore components, protein import components, and pre-mRNA splicing factors as essential for piRNA-mediated gene silencing. Using small RNA sequencing, we further characterized components from each of these categories to better understand how they mediate silencing in C.elegans.