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Mesoderm migration in the Xenopus gastrula
R Winklbauer1, M Nagel, A Selchow
1Universität zu Köln, Zoologisches Institut, Germany.
The International Journal of Developmental Biology
|February 1, 1996
Summary
Xenopus gastrulation involves mesoderm cell migration guided by fibronectin (FN) on the blastocoel roof (BCR). Mesoderm cells migrate efficiently as cohesive multicellular aggregates, driven by intrinsic polarity and FN cues.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Biology
- Cell Biology
- Biophysics
Background:
- During Xenopus gastrulation, mesoderm cells migrate along the blastocoel roof (BCR).
- Mesoderm cell migration is crucial for gastrulation, involving active cell movement and substrate interaction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the mechanisms of mesoderm cell migration on the BCR during Xenopus gastrulation.
- To understand the role of fibronectin (FN) and cell-cell adhesion in directing mesoderm movement.
Main Methods:
- In vitro migration assays of mesoderm cells.
- Observation of cell behavior, lamellipodia extension, and adhesion.
- Analysis of cell sorting and tissue polarity.
Main Results:
- Mesoderm cells migrate non-persistently, extending multiple lamellipodia, with FN inducing lamellipodia formation and migration.
- Migrating mesoderm cells maintain a stable interface with the BCR, indicating specific cell sorting.
- Mesoderm aggregates exhibit more persistent and directional migration due to cadherin-mediated adhesion and intrinsic tissue polarity.
Conclusions:
- Fibronectin (FN) fibrils on the BCR are essential for mesoderm cell migration, acting as guidance cues.
- Cadherin-mediated cell adhesion promotes collective cell migration, enhancing efficiency and directionality.
- While mesoderm migration is important, convergent extension of axial mesoderm is the primary driver of gastrulation in Xenopus.