Investigating cell shape changes during organogenesis using a 3D vertex model

Left-right (LR) asymmetry present in internal organs of vertebrates initiates during embryonic development with observable changes to individual cell shapes which are vital to the creation of functional organs. However, the mechanisms that drive cell shape changes remain poorly understood. Kupffer’s vesicle (KV) is a transient organ in the Zebrafish embryo that acts as the LR organizer. As the KV moves through the surrounding tissue during development, KV cells change shape along the anterior-posterior (AP) axis, a necessary process for subsequent LR asymmetry^[1]. Erdemci-Tandogan et al.^[2] used a 2D vertex model and experimental data to show that surrounding tissue rheology and KV cell motility could drive KV cell shape changes. Since the KV is inherently 3D, and that 2D and 3D drag forces can be very different, we extend that work by studying drag forces on the KV in a 3D model. We show that cell shape changes along the AP axis do occur in 3D due to drag forces. By implementing particle-image-velocimetry (PIV) analysis, we quantitatively compare simulation and experimental data of the flow of surrounding cells past the KV as it develops.
1. Dasgupta et al., eLife 2018;7:e30963.
2. Erdemci-Tandogan et al., Biophys. J. 115, 2018