Planar Differential Growth Rates Initiate Precise Fold Positions in Complex Epithelia.

We present a computational model of morphogenesis, encompassing local differential growth and tissue mechanics, to investigate tissue fold positioning. We use the Drosophila wing disc as our model system and show that there is spatial-temporal heterogeneity in its planar growth rates. This differential growth, especially at the early stages of development, is the main driver for fold positioning. Increased apical layer stiffness and confinement by the basement membrane drive fold formation but influence positioning to a lesser degree. The model successfully predicts the in vivo morphology of overgrowth clones and wingless mutants via perturbations solely on planar differential growth in silico.
PMID: 31607650 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

Source: Developmental Cell - October 7, 2019 Category: Cytology Authors: Tozluoǧlu M, Duda M, Kirkland NJ, Barrientos R, Burden JJ, Muñoz JJ, Mao Y Tags: Dev Cell Source Type: research