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Characterization of the extracellular matrix during somitogenesis in the long-tailed monkey (Macaca fascicularis)
P E Peterson1, C S Pow, D B Wilson
1California Regional Primate Research Center, University of California, Davis 95616-8542.
Abstract:
The composition of the extracellular matrix (ECM) associated with somitogenesis (stages 10-14) in the long-tailed monkey (Macaca fascicularis) was examined using peroxidase immunocytochemistry. A distinct temporal and spatial staining pattern was demonstrated for each component examined. Fibronectin (FN), laminin (LM) and hyaluronic acid (HA) were associated with the somite at each developmental stage, while no chondroitin sulfate (CS) staining was evident until stages 13/14. The basement membrane and matrix fibers linking the somites to the surrounding epithelia stained for FN, LM and HA. Localization of LM and HA between somite cells was observed at each stage, whereas FN and CS reactivity within the somitic tissue was only observed between sclerotome cells at stages 13/14. Whereas FN- and HA-positive fibers surrounded the unsegmented mesoderm, HA, and to a lesser extent LM, were located within the presomitic tissue. Comparisons are made with earlier studies conducted in rodent and avian embryos which indicate that these ECM components may play a regulatory role in primate somitogenesis.
Insights
Extracellular matrix components like fibronectin, laminin, and hyaluronic acid are crucial during primate somitogenesis. Their specific patterns suggest a regulatory role in embryonic development.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Biology
- Embryology
- Primate Development
Background:
- The extracellular matrix (ECM) plays a vital role in embryonic development.
- Understanding ECM composition during somitogenesis is key to deciphering developmental processes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the temporal and spatial distribution of ECM components during primate somitogenesis.
- To compare ECM involvement in primate somitogenesis with that in other species.
Main Methods:
- Peroxidase immunocytochemistry was used to examine ECM composition.
- The study focused on Macaca fascicularis embryos at developmental stages 10-14.
Main Results:
- Fibronectin, laminin, and hyaluronic acid were present throughout somitogenesis (stages 10-14).
- Chondroitin sulfate staining appeared later, at stages 13/14.
- Specific ECM components showed distinct localization patterns within and around developing somites.
Conclusions:
- ECM components exhibit dynamic temporal and spatial expression during primate somitogenesis.
- These findings suggest a regulatory role for ECM in primate embryonic development, with potential parallels to rodent and avian models.