Planar cell polarity planes the inconveniences of cell division into a smooth morphogenetic process.
Cell divisions are necessary, but also very disruptive for morphogenesis. Dividing cells lose many intercellular contacts and polarized features. This breaks the magnificent topology of the developing embryo and, if left unrepaired, can lead to severe tissue disorganization. A recent study demonstrated that cells use the planar cell polarity pathway to reestablish polarity and reintegrate daughter cells into developing tissue.
Nechiporuk
Tamilla
T
Division of Human Biology, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, 1100 Fairview Avenue North, Seattle, WA 98109, USA.
Vasioukhin
Valeri
V
D000818:Animals; D002448:Cell Adhesion; D002455:Cell Division / Q000235:genetics / Q000502:physiology*; D016764:Cell Polarity / Q000235:genetics / Q000502:physiology*; D009024:Morphogenesis; D009154:Mutation; D009420:Nervous System / Q000196:embryology; D015398:Signal Transduction; D015027:Zebrafish / Q000196:embryology / Q000235:genetics