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Cell wound repair in Drosophila occurs through three distinct phases of membrane and cytoskeletal remodeling.

TitleCell wound repair in Drosophila occurs through three distinct phases of membrane and cytoskeletal remodeling.
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2011
AuthorsAbreu-Blanco M T, Verboon JM, Parkhurst SM
JournalThe Journal of cell biology
Volume193
Issue3
Pagination455-64
Date Published2011 May 2
ISSN1540-8140
KeywordsActins, Actomyosin, Sequence Analysis, DNA, Animals, Animals, Genetically Modified, Cadherins, Cell Membrane, Crosses, Genetic, cytoskeleton, Drosophila melanogaster, Microtubules, Mutation, Myosins, Wound Healing
Abstract

<p>When single cells or tissues are injured, the wound must be repaired quickly in order to prevent cell death, loss of tissue integrity, and invasion by microorganisms. We describe Drosophila as a genetically tractable model to dissect the mechanisms of single-cell wound repair. By analyzing the expression and the effects of perturbations of actin, myosin, microtubules, E-cadherin, and the plasma membrane, we define three distinct phases in the repair process-expansion, contraction, and closure-and identify specific components required during each phase. Specifically, plasma membrane mobilization and assembly of a contractile actomyosin ring are required for this process. In addition, E-cadherin accumulates at the wound edge, and wound expansion is excessive in E-cadherin mutants, suggesting a role for E-cadherin in anchoring the actomyosin ring to the plasma membrane. Our results show that single-cell wound repair requires specific spatial and temporal cytoskeleton responses with distinct components and mechanisms required at different stages of the process.</p>

DOI10.1083/jcb.201011018
Alternate JournalJ. Cell Biol.