Branching morphogenesis: Rac signaling 'PIX' tubulogenesis. Focus on 'Pak1 regulates branching morphogenesis in 3D MDCK cell culture by a PIX and beta1-integrin-dependent mechanism'.

摘要

Branching morphogenesis mechanisms are regulated during organogenesis, tissue maintenance, and repair (17). We are also beginning to understand the broad influence of these morphogenesis signaling mechanisms during physiological processes and disease progression. Branching morphogenesis mechanisms are conserved between vertebrates and invertebrates. Common features include regulation of cell-to-cell adhesion, cell-to-extracellular matrix adhesion, growth factor and paracrine signaling, cell migration, differentiation, cell growth, and cell survival. Many developmental model systems, from Drosophila tracheal branching to metanephric kidney development, are actively being exploited to understand fundamental mechanisms of branching morphogenesis (17).