Basal Cell-Extracellular Matrix Adhesion Regulates Force Transmission during Tissue Morphogenesis

Publication date: 5 December 2016
Source:Developmental Cell, Volume 39, Issue 5
Author(s): Katharine Goodwin, Stephanie J. Ellis, Emily Lostchuck, Teresa Zulueta-Coarasa, Rodrigo Fernandez-Gonzalez, Guy Tanentzapf
Tissue morphogenesis requires force-generating mechanisms to organize cells into complex structures. Although many such mechanisms have been characterized, we know little about how forces are integrated across developing tissues. We provide evidence that integrin-mediated cell-extracellular matrix (ECM) adhesion modulates the transmission of apically generated tension during dorsal closure (DC) in Drosophila. Integrin-containing adhesive structures resembling focal adhesions were identified on the basal surface of the amnioserosa (AS), an extraembryonic epithelium essential for DC. Genetic modulation of integrin-mediated adhesion results in defective DC. Quantitative image analysis and laser ablation experiments reveal that basal cell-ECM adhesions provide resistance to apical cell displacements and force transmission between neighboring cells in the AS. Finally, we provide evidence for integrin-dependent force transmission to the AS substrate. Overall, we find that integrins regulate force transmission within and between cells, thereby playing an essential role in transmitting tension in developing tissues.

Graphical abstract

Teaser

Goodwin, Ellis et al. identify integrin-containing focal adhesion-like structures on the basal amnioserosa surface that act as tethers, anchoring the apical cell surface to the substrate. These basal adhesions are required for dorsal closure, where they modulate apical surface force transmission and may resist large-scale cell displacements during tissue contraction.


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