The core planar cell polarity gene, <i>Vangl2</i>, directs adult corneal epithelial cell alignment and migration.

ABSTRACT: This study shows that the core planar cell polarity (PCP) genes direct the aligned cell migration in the adult corneal epithelium, a stratified squamous epithelium on the outer surface of the vertebrate eye. Expression of multiple core PCP genes was demonstrated in the adult corneal epithelium. PCP components were manipulated genetically and pharmacologically in human and mouse corneal epithelial cells in vivo and in vitro. Knockdown of VANGL2 reduced the directional component of migration of human corneal epithelial (HCE) cells without affecting speed. It was shown that signalling through PCP mediators, dishevelled, dishevelled-associated activator of morphogenesis and Rho-associated protein kinase directs the alignment of HCE cells by affecting cytoskeletal reorganiz

SUBMITTER: Findlay AS 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5099008 | biostudies-literature | 2016 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature