smo-1 RNAi caused ectopic NHR-25::GFP expression in P(4,8).pxx cells, which displayed the strongest Muv induction in NHR-25::GFP;
smo-1(RNAi). In wild type animals, NHR- 25::GFP was normally expressed in the anchor cell at the time of the first VPC divisions, and subsequently decreased. Interestingly, we noted that in nine of ten
smo-1(RNAi) animals NHR-25::GFP was re-expressed in the AC at the "bell stage". Subsequently, no AC invasion occurred and the AC remained unfused. Therefore, in addition to restricting NHR-25 activity in 3 cells, sumoylation also limits NHR- 25 accumulation in cells that are destined to assume the 3 fate.