Work

Hyperacetylation of Microtubules in Mesenchymal Cells Increases Cytokeratin 14–Positive Epithelial Progenitors in Developing Salivary Glands

Year: 2016

Type: article

Abstract: Cells engage in bidirectional communication with their surroundings. This reciprocal dialogue between cells and their cellular microenvironments often governs the maintenance and differentiation of stem/progenitor cells. Here, the authors present evidence that in developing salivary gland explants, a single posttranslational change in microtubules in mesenchymal cells alters the mesenchymal microenvironment and promotes the maintenance and differentiation of a subset of epithelial progenitor cells that impairs branching morphogenesis. Specifically, the authors report that hyperacetylation of microtubules in mesenchymal cells increased cytokeratin 14-positive (K14+) progenitors and their differentiated progeny, myoepithelial cells, in epithelial basal and suprabasal layers in the distal endbud region of developing salivary glands. Mechanistically, this process engages the transforming growth factor β1 protein and Notch signaling pathways. This report establishes that a simple posttranslational change in the cytoskeletal system of mesenchyme dictates the maintenance and differentiation of adjacent epithelial progenitor cells to alter branching morphogenesis of the epithelium.

Source: Journal of Dental Research

DOI: 10.1177/0022034516662450

Authors: E.E. Joo, I.M.A. Lombaert, K.M. Yamada

Institutions: National Institutes of Health, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research

Language: English

Topic: Salivary Gland Disorders and Functions

Subfield: Physiology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: green

Funders: National Institutes of Health, Biointerfaces Institute, University of Michigan, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research