Study of Cell-Quality-Control based on morphogen gradient supporting tissue homeostasis and regeneration

2020 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 19K16117
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Early-Career Scientists
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund
• Review Section: Basic Section 44010:Cell biology-related
• Research Institution: Osaka University
• Principal Investigator: Akieda Yuki 大阪大学, 微生物病研究所, 助教 (20770514)
• Project Period (FY): 2019-04-01 – 2021-03-31
• Keywords: モルフォゲン / Wntシグナル / ゼブラフィッシュ / イメージング / 細胞競合

Outline of Final Research Achievements

Cell competition is the survival of the fittest system of cells observed in the cellular community. We have found that defective cells that disrupt the Wnt signaling gradient, the morphogen that forms the anterior-posterior axis of the body, are eliminated through cell competition. Furthermore, we qualified that cell competition supports accurate embryogenesis, and elucidated the physiological significances of cell competition. Furthermore, we proceeded with the analysis of the physiological significance of cell competition "developed tissues/organs". The live imaging analysis system was improved, optimized, and established. Furthermore, we obtained results suggesting that cell quality control becomes fragile and the Wnt signaling gradient collapses over time in developed tissues.

Free Research Field

細胞生物学

Academic Significance and Societal Importance of the Research Achievements

構築後の組織において細胞競合が細胞品質管理を担い、不良な細胞を除去しており、加齢とともに脆弱化して組織の恒常性が維持できなくなることが示唆された。このことは細胞競合の破綻が、臓器の機能不全やがんなどの様々な疾患発症との関連を推察させる。このメカニズムが分かれば、組織・臓器を健康に保持する方法や新たな疾患の予防法などを見出すことができる可能性がある。