Dev Biol 2025 Apr 11;523:59-67. doi: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2025.04.007.

PCP-dependent polarized mechanics in the cortex of individual cells during convergent extension.

???displayArticle.abstract???
Convergent extension (CE) is a key process for tissue elongation during vertebrate development and is driven by polarized cell behaviors. Here, we used a novel image-based technique to investigate the mechanical properties of individual cells undergoing CE. Our results suggest a PCP- and Septin-dependent mechanical gradient, where cortical tension is higher at the anterior face of the cells compared with their posterior face. Disruption of PCP protein Vangl2 or its downstream effector Septin7 eliminates this mechanical polarity. These findings demonstrate a link between actin organization, PCP signaling, and mechanical polarization, providing new avenues into the mechanochemical regulation of cellular behaviors during CE.

???displayArticle.pubmedLink??? 40222643
???displayArticle.link??? Dev Biol


Species referenced: Xenopus laevis
Genes referenced: prickle1 septin7 vangl2
GO keywords: convergent extension [+]
???displayArticle.morpholinos??? septin7 MO1 vangl2 MO2