A transient apical extracellular matrix relays cytoskeletal patterns to shape permanent acellular ridges on the surface of adult C. elegans.

ABSTRACT: Epithelial cells secrete apical extracellular matrices to form protruding structures such as denticles, ridges, scales, or teeth. The mechanisms that shape these structures remain poorly understood. Here, we show how the actin cytoskeleton and a provisional matrix work together to sculpt acellular longitudinal alae ridges in the cuticle of adult C. elegans. Transient assembly of longitudinal actomyosin filaments in the underlying lateral epidermis accompanies deposition of the provisional matrix at the earliest stages of alae formation. Actin is required to pattern the provisional matrix into longitudinal bands that are initially offset from the pattern of longitudinal actin filaments. These bands appear ultrastructurally as alternating regions of adhesion and separation within laminated p

SUBMITTER: Katz SS 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9401183 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature