C. elegans Embryonic Morphogenesis

Abstract

Morphogenesis is a four-dimensional process which involves the crucial interplay between signaling, mechanical forces, and spatial changes. Caenorhabditis elegans presents a simple yet versatile model to study morphogenesis. Here, we review recent progress on cellular and molecular drivers of morphological changes during C. elegans epiboly and embryonic elongation: actin dynamics and actomyosin contractility, migration guidance cues and junction remodeling. In addition, we discuss how mechanical forces contribute to the process.

Keywords: Actin dynamics; Actomyosin contractility; C. elegans; Cell migration; Embryonic morphogenesis; Junction remodeling; Mechanotransduction; Migration guidance; Muscle attachement.