Regulation of dynamic actin networks during epithelial morphogenesis

University Of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison WI

Investigators

Linked publications & trials

Abstract

Project Summary/Abstract Embryonic development requires the dynamic remodeling of epithelial sheets as the embryo transforms itself during morphogenesis. Embryonic epithelia are hybrid tissues: they must maintain their integrity as mechanically integrated cell sheets, connected by cell-cell junctions, yet their cells must also retain the ability to dynamically change shape and position. The actin cytoskeleton is central to these activities; cells must link actomyosin networks dynamically to the cell surface via junctional complexes, and they must dynamically polymerize actin networks during cell shape changes and cell migratory events. Our goal is to understand the dynamics of actin networks during rapid cell shape change and during directed cell rearrangement in embryos. Our goal is a multidisciplinary, integrated analysis of morphogenetic movements in embryos that unites detailed structural analysis, single-molecule biophysics, genetics, and dynamic in vivo analysis, in an "Angstroms to embryos" approach to morphogenesis. Upgrading our ability to image living embryos using high-numerical aperture DIC optics and modern USB3- based cameras controlled by the NIH-supported, open-source software MicroManager will allow us to extend our analyses by providing higher throughout, better resolution, and enhanced focal stability relevant to all aims of the parent award.