Abstract
Cell rearrangements are critical for tissue remodeling during diverse biological processes, such as morphogenesis or cancer progression. They control tissue fluidity and can lead to irreversible shape changes in cohesive tissues. However, the completion of such rearrangements is strongly conditioned by intercellular adhesion, that can prevent their completion or conversely promote them along a given pattern. In this review we explore how intercellular adhesion impacts cell rearrangements at the local scale and how it translates into macroscopic mechanical properties in biological tissues. We first describe general principles obtained from the study of dispersed materials, such as emulsions, in which the mechanical properties and interaction potential between individual particles can be described in a quantitative manner. We then review the effect of varying cell-cell adhesion on rearrangements in vitro model tissues, from cell aggregates to 2D epithelial-like cellular layers. We finally consider developing tissues in which adhesion between the cells is strongly tuned and localized in order to allow for function and shape emergence in the embryo.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
