Anisotropy of cell adhesive microenvironment governs cell internal organization and orientation of polarity

• DOI: 10.1073/pnas.0609267103
• Publication Date: 2006-12-19T01:48:29Z
• Authors: Manuel Théry; Victor Racine; Matthieu Piel; Anne Pépin; Ariane Dimitrov; Yong Chen; Jean-Baptiste Sib...; Michel Bornens
• Keywords: Cell polarity; Cell Cortex; Polarity (international relations)

Control of the establishment cell polarity is an essential function in tissue morphogenesis and renewal that depends on spatial cues provided by extracellular environment. The molecular role cell-cell or cell-extracellular matrix (ECM) contacts has been well characterized. It hypothesized geometry adhesive microenvironment was directing surface polarization internal organization. To define how environment affects polarity, we analyzed organization individual cells plated defined micropatterned substrates imposing to spread various combinations nonadhesive areas. reproducible normalization effect overall compartmentalization enabled quantification actin network associated proteins, distribution microtubules, positioning nucleus, centrosome, Golgi apparatus. By using specific micropatterns statistical analysis compartment positions, demonstrated ECM determines orientation axes. nucleus-centrosome orientations were reproducibly directed toward edges. anisotropy cortex response conditions did not affect centrosome at centroid. Based microtubule plus end propose a working model accounts for observation. We conclude that, addition composition mechanical properties, plays key developmental processes.