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Pattern formation during gastrulation in the sea urchin embryo
D R McClay1, N A Armstrong, J Hardin
1Department of Zoology, Duke University, Durham, NC 27706.
Development (Cambridge, England). Supplement
|January 1, 1992
Summary
Sea urchin gastrulation involves cell-autonomous behaviors and crucial cell interactions. These interactions guide mesoderm and endoderm development, ensuring proper embryonic patterning and morphogenesis.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Biology
- Cell Biology
- Embryology
Background:
- Sea urchin gastrulation is a model for understanding fundamental developmental processes.
- Mesoderm and endoderm formation involve complex cell movements and differentiation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the interplay between cell-autonomous behaviors and cell interactions during sea urchin gastrulation.
- To identify the types of information (spatial, temporal, scalar) exchanged between embryonic cells.
Main Methods:
- Observation of sea urchin embryonic development.
- In vitro culture of isolated embryonic cells (micromeres, endoderm).
- Manipulative experiments to disrupt cell interactions.
Main Results:
- Primary mesenchyme cells ingress and migrate to form the larval skeleton.
- Secondary mesenchyme and endoderm invaginate, with secondary mesenchyme differentiating into various cell types.
- Isolated cells retain some morphogenetic functions, but interactions are essential for complete development.
Conclusions:
- Sea urchin gastrulation relies on both intrinsic cellular properties and extrinsic cues from cell-cell interactions.
- Embryonic cells receive critical spatial, temporal, and scalar information through cell interactions.
- Understanding these mechanisms provides insights into broader principles of developmental patterning.