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Multiparametric image analysis of lung‐branching morphogenesis
Author(s) -
Schnatwinkel Carsten,
Niswander Lee
Publication year - 2013
Publication title -
developmental dynamics
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.634
H-Index - 141
eISSN - 1097-0177
pISSN - 1058-8388
DOI - 10.1002/dvdy.23961
Subject(s) - biology , morphogenesis , microbiology and biotechnology , lung , branching (polymer chemistry) , live cell imaging , anatomy , cell , genetics , medicine , chemistry , gene , organic chemistry
Background: Lung‐branching morphogenesis is a fundamental developmental process, yet the cellular dynamics that occur during lung development and the molecular mechanisms underlying recent postulated branching modes are poorly understood. Results: Here, we implemented a time‐lapse video microscopy method to study the cellular behavior and molecular mechanisms of planar bifurcation and domain branching in lung explant‐ and organotypic cultures. Our analysis revealed morphologically distinct stages that are shaped at least in part by a combination of localized and orientated cell divisions and by local mechanical forces. We also identified myosin light‐chain kinase as an important regulator of bud bifurcation, but not domain branching in lung explants. Conclusions: This live imaging approach provides a method to study cellular behavior during lung‐branching morphogenesis and suggests the importance of a mechanism primarily based on oriented cell proliferation and mechanical forces in forming and shaping the developing lung airways. Developmental Dynamics 242:622–637, 2013 . © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.