EGFR-dependent actomyosin patterning coordinates morphogenetic movements between tissues
D Nathaniel Clarke1, Adam C Martin1
1Dept. of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
Biorxiv : the Preprint Server for Biology
|January 8, 2024
Summary
Cellular coordination during Drosophila gastrulation relies on adherens junction patterns regulated by epidermal growth factor (EGF) signaling, ensuring proper tissue folding and axis extension.
Area of Science:
- Developmental biology
- Cell biology
- Molecular biology
Background:
- Cell shape changes and rearrangements coordinate morphogenetic movements for body structure.
- Understanding the integration of cellular coordination and morphogenetic programs is crucial.
Approach:
- Quantitative imaging was used to analyze adherens junction (AJ) levels in the Drosophila ectoderm.
- Investigated the role of epidermal growth factor (EGF) signaling in regulating AJ patterns.
- Identified downstream effectors of EGF receptor (EGFR) signaling.
Key Points:
- A distinct dorsal-ventral gradient of AJ intensity was observed in the ectoderm before gastrulation.
- EGF signaling regulates this AJ pattern.
- This signaling pathway is essential for ectoderm cell movement during mesoderm invagination and axis extension.
Conclusions:
- Adherens junction levels and junctional actomyosin are downstream effectors of EGFR signaling.
- A mechanism coordinating tissue folding and convergent extension facilitates gastrulation movements in Drosophila embryos.
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