Fig. 6

Metabolic control in the transition to the dauer state. The model represents the genetic control of metabolic and developmental determinants of dauer formation and their interactions with respect to the establishment of the dauer state. The metabolic shift consists of two modules—module 1 comprises the overall metabolic rate, mainly reflecting the catabolism of energy reserves, and module 2 affects the stoichiometry of metabolic enzymes and, thus, the directionality of metabolic pathways. DAF-16 and AAK-2 inhibit catabolism and promote energy conservation required for the long-term survival of dauers. In parallel to DAF-12, they also promote a shift in the stoichiometry of metabolic enzymes that underlies the enhanced gluconeogenesis and stimulates developmental arrest. The latter occurs at the third larval stage due to the activity of developmental timers, controlled at least partly by DAF-12. The metabolic and physiologic adaptations for survival are complemented by the specific morphogenetic program under the control of DAF-12