Cell Contacts Between Chorda-Mesoderm and the Overlaying Neuroectoderm (Presumptive Central Nervous System) During the Period of Primary Embryonic Induction in Amphibians |
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Authors: | H GRUNZ J STAUBACH |
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Institution: | Institute of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Free University of Berlin, Arnimallee 22, D-1000 Berlin, Federal Republic of Germany |
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Abstract: | Using transmission and scanning electron microscopy we were able to show that during primary embryonic induction in amphibians ( Triturus alpestris ) the interspace between the inducing chorda-mesoderm and the reacting ectoderm (presumptive medullary plate) of mid-gastrula stages is traversed by cell projections starting from cells of both tissue layers. In addition intimate membrane contacts between the main bodies of the ectodermal and chorda-mesodermal cells could be observed. It could be ruled out that cytoplasmic bridges (anastomosis) exist between cells of inducing chorda-mesoderm and reacting ectoderm, which would allow a free transfer of inducing substances without passing through membranes, as Eakin and Lehmann 1] have postulated. The possible role of cell to cell contact for neural induction is emphasized. |
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