Morphogenetic movements driving neural tube closure in Xenopus require myosin IIB.

ABSTRACT: Vertebrate neural tube formation involves two distinct morphogenetic events--convergent extension (CE) driven by mediolateral cell intercalation, and bending of the neural plate driven largely by cellular apical constriction. However, the cellular and molecular biomechanics of these processes are not understood. Here, using tissue-targeting techniques, we show that the myosin IIB motor protein complex is essential for both these processes, as well as for conferring resistance to deformation to the neural plate tissue. We show that myosin IIB is required for actin-cytoskeletal organization in both superficial and deep layers of the Xenopus neural plate. In the superficial layer, myosin IIB is needed for apical actin accumulation, which underlies constriction of the neuroepithelial cells, an

SUBMITTER: Rolo A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2820227 | biostudies-literature | 2009 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature