A multi-tiered mechanical mechanism shapes the early neural plate

Angus Inman, Elisabeth Spiritosanto, Bridget L. Evans, Judith E. Lutton, Masazumi Tada, Till Bretschneider, Pierre A. Haas () and Michael Smutny ()
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Angus Inman: University of Warwick
Elisabeth Spiritosanto: University of Warwick
Bridget L. Evans: University of Warwick
Judith E. Lutton: University of Warwick
Masazumi Tada: University College London
Till Bretschneider: University of Warwick
Pierre A. Haas: Max Planck Institute for the Physics of Complex Systems
Michael Smutny: University of Warwick

Nature Communications, 2025, vol. 16, issue 1, 1-17

Abstract: Abstract The formation of complex tissues during embryonic development requires an intricate spatiotemporal coordination of local mechanical processes regulating global tissue morphogenesis. Here, we uncover a novel mechanism that mechanically regulates the shape of the anterior neural plate (ANP), a vital forebrain precursor, during zebrafish gastrulation. Combining in vivo and in silico approaches we reveal that the ANP is shaped by global tissue flows regulated by distinct force-generating processes. We show that mesendoderm migration and E-cadherin-dependent differential tissue interactions control distinct flow regimes in the neuroectoderm. Initial opposing flows lead to neuroectoderm cell internalisation and progressive multilayer tissue folding which in turn provide forces driving ANP tissue reshaping. We find that convergent extension is dispensable for internalisation but required for ANP tissue extension. Our results highlight how spatiotemporal regulation and coupling of different mechanical processes between tissues in the embryo control the first internalisation and folding events of the developing brain.

Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-61303-1

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