The extracellular matrix and its role in cell migration and development of the enteric nervous system

The extracellular matrix (ECM), a network consisting of many different macromolecules, fulfils many important functions in every multicellular organism, especially during their development. Among other factors, ECM molecules are necessary for cell migration and also regulate cell differentiation, as could be shown in a wide range of animals. The enteric nervous system (ENS) is built up by neural crest cells (NCC) migrating along predetermined pathways into the developing gut. Studies done for example in mice and chickens did not only enable scientists to reconstruct these routes but also to demonstrate their dependence on ECM molecules such as laminin. Currently we are investigating the influence of different ECM constituents, growth factors and noxious factors on NCC migration and differentiation in the developing chicken gut. The easy handling of the chicken embryo and the use of different methods will give us valuable insights for further investigations.