Neuritogenesis on collagen substrates. Involvement of integrin-like matrix receptors in retinal fibre outgrowth on collagen

Int J Dev Neurosci. 1992 Oct;10(5):393-405. doi: 10.1016/0736-5748(92)90029-y.

Abstract

Extracellular matrix molecules such as laminin, fibronectin and collagen promote neurite outgrowth in vitro. We have investigated the capacity of hydrated gels of collagen types I-III and monomeric collagen types I-VI on plastic surfaces to support neuritogenesis. The attachment and survival of explants from the day 6 chick embryo were studied and neurite outgrowth measured as mean elongation rate and maximal neurite length. Collagen types I and III, both as three-dimensional gels or as native monomers supported neuritogenesis equal to or better than laminin. Collagen type V also supported neurite out-growth although less effectively. Collagen types II, IV and VI, as well as denatured collagens of all types tested, did not support outgrowth. The monoclonal anti-beta 1 integrin antibody (CSAT), as well as rabbit polyclonal antibodies directed to the integrin beta 1-chain, effectively inhibited neurite outgrowth on permissive collagenous substrata, indicating that collagen-binding integrins were involved in the neuritogenesis. These beta 1-integrins were independent of Arg-Gly-Asp (RGD) since neurite formation proceeded in the presence of synthetic RGD-containing peptides. Fluorescence immunohistochemistry revealed the presence of the integrin beta 1-chain on the outgrowing neurites. The results suggest a possible function of collagen and collagen-binding integrins in the development of the visual system.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal / immunology
  • Chick Embryo
  • Collagen / metabolism*
  • Collagen / physiology
  • Culture Techniques
  • Indicators and Reagents
  • Integrins / immunology
  • Integrins / metabolism*
  • Neurites / physiology*
  • Retina / cytology
  • Retina / growth & development
  • Retina / metabolism*

Substances

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal
  • Indicators and Reagents
  • Integrins
  • Collagen