Collective–amoeboid transition

Collective–amoeboid transition

The collective–amoeboid transition (CAT) is a phenomenon observed in cell biology where cells transition between collective and amoeboid modes of movement. This transition is significant in various biological processes, including embryogenesis, tissue repair, and cancer metastasis.

Mechanisms of Transition

The transition between collective and amoeboid movement involves changes in cell-cell adhesion, cytoskeletal dynamics, and extracellular matrix interactions. In the collective mode, cells move as a cohesive group, maintaining cell-cell junctions and coordinated movement. In contrast, amoeboid movement is characterized by individual cell migration, often involving a rounded cell shape and the use of blebs for propulsion.

Cell-Cell Adhesion

In the collective mode, cells are connected by cadherins and other adhesion molecules, which facilitate coordinated movement. The downregulation of these adhesion molecules can trigger the transition to amoeboid movement.

Cytoskeletal Dynamics

The cytoskeleton plays a crucial role in both modes of movement. In collective migration, actin filaments and microtubules are organized to support cell-cell junctions and coordinated movement. During the transition to amoeboid movement, the cytoskeleton reorganizes to support individual cell motility, often involving actomyosin contractility.

Extracellular Matrix Interactions

Cells interact with the extracellular matrix (ECM) through integrins and other receptors. In collective migration, cells often degrade the ECM to create paths for movement. In amoeboid migration, cells can move through the ECM without significant degradation, often by squeezing through gaps in the matrix.

Biological Significance

The collective–amoeboid transition is essential for various physiological and pathological processes.

Embryogenesis

During embryogenesis, cells undergo transitions between collective and amoeboid movement to form tissues and organs. This process is tightly regulated by signaling pathways and mechanical cues.

Tissue Repair

In tissue repair, cells migrate to the site of injury to facilitate healing. The ability to switch between collective and amoeboid movement allows cells to navigate different tissue environments effectively.

Cancer Metastasis

The collective–amoeboid transition is particularly important in cancer metastasis. Cancer cells can switch between these modes of movement to invade surrounding tissues and spread to distant sites. Understanding this transition can provide insights into potential therapeutic targets for preventing metastasis.

Research and Implications

Research on the collective–amoeboid transition is ongoing, with studies focusing on the molecular mechanisms, signaling pathways, and mechanical forces involved. Insights from this research have implications for developing new strategies to control cell migration in various contexts, including cancer therapy, tissue engineering, and regenerative medicine.

See Also

• Cell migration
• Cytoskeleton
• Extracellular matrix
• Cancer metastasis
• Embryogenesis
• Tissue repair

External Links

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