RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 New tools reveal PCP-dependent polarized mechanics in the cortex and cytoplasm of single cells during convergent extension
JF bioRxiv
FD Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory
SP 2023.11.07.566066
DO 10.1101/2023.11.07.566066
A1 Weng, Shinuo
A1 Devitt, Caitlin C.
A1 Nyaoga, Bill M.
A1 Havnen, Anna E.
A1 Alvarado, José
A1 Wallingford, John B.
YR 2023
UL http://biorxiv.org/content/early/2023/11/08/2023.11.07.566066.abstract
AB Understanding biomechanics of biological systems is crucial for unraveling complex processes like tissue morphogenesis. However, current methods for studying cellular mechanics in vivo are limited by the need for specialized equipment and often provide limited spatiotemporal resolution. Here we introduce two new techniques, Tension by Transverse Fluctuation (TFlux) and in vivo microrheology, that overcome these limitations. They both offer time-resolved, subcellular biomechanical analysis using only fluorescent reporters and widely available microscopes. Employing these two techniques, we have revealed a planar cell polarity (PCP)-dependent mechanical gradient both in the cell cortex and the cytoplasm of individual cells engaged in convergent extension. Importantly, the non-invasive nature of these methods holds great promise for its application for uncovering subcellular mechanical variations across a wide array of biological contexts.Summary Non-invasive imaging-based techniques providing time-resolved biomechanical analysis at subcellular scales in developing vertebrate embryos.Competing Interest StatementThe authors have declared no competing interest.