Tentonin 3 regulates the proliferation and migration of neural stem cells during embryonic brain development

Cell fate determination during brain development, encompassing both neural stem cells (NSCs) and immature neurons, is orchestrated by complex mechanical signals. While mechanical sensing during forebrain development is gaining recognition, the underlying regulatory genes remain underexplored.

In this study, we present a comprehensive analysis of the expression patterns of the mechanosensitive channel Tentonin 3 (TMEM150C, TTN3) across critical stages of embryonic brain development (E12.5, E14.5, E16.5, and E18.5) using RNAscope technology. We investigated Ttn3 expression in NSCs and immature neurons through co-staining with Nestin, Eomesodermin, and Doublecortin probes. Ttn3 transcripts were detected across multiple embryonic brain regions and layers, with a higher expression in the superficial layers compared to the ventricular and subventricular zones. In addition, we demonstrate that TTN3 is involved in the proliferation and migration of progenitor cells.

Our findings suggest that TTN3 may play a critical role in embryonic brain development, potentially contributing as a mechanotransduction mediator.