Arrangement of actin filaments in in vitro migrating human gingival epithelial cells

Using immunofluorescent techniques and anti-actin antibodies the presence of actin filaments has been demonstrated in epithelial cells cultivated in vitro. Organized bundles of filaments are restricted to the marginal cells in epithelial sheets. These marginal cells are not contact-inhibited and show structures like membrane ruffles which are common for migrating cells. In contrast, internal cells in the epithelial sheets are diffusely stained by anti-actin antibodies. The actin in all cells is redistributed after incubation in media containing cytochalasin B (CB). The importance of organized actin-filaments in migrating epithelial cells is discussed.