The Differential Interfacial Tension Hypothesis (DITH): A Comprehensive Theory for the Self-Rearrangement of Embryonic Cells and Tissues

作者：G. Wayne Brodland · 发表于：Journal of Biomechanical Engineering · 年份：2002 · DOI：10.1115/1.1449491 · 被引用次数：312 · 研究领域：Cellular Mechanics and Interactions、3D Printing in Biomedical Research、Advanced Materials and Mechanics

A comprehensive theory, herein named the Differential Interfacial Tension Hypothesis for the self-rearrangement of embryonic cells and tissues is presented. These rearrangements include sorting, mixing and formation of checkerboard patterns in heterotypic aggregates of embryonic cells, and total or partial engulfment, separation and dissociation of tissues. This broadly-based theory accounts for the action of all currently known cytoskeletal components and cell adhesion mechanisms. The theory is used to derive conditions for the cell and tissue rearrangements named above. Finite element-based computer simulations involving two or more cell types confirm these conditions.