As the crucial non-cellular component of tissues, the extracellular matrix (ECM) provides
both physical support and signaling regulation to cells. Some ECM molecules provide a …

As animals develop, tissue bending contributes to shape the organs into complex three-
dimensional structures. However, the architecture and packing of curved epithelia remains …

Life is organized into more or less well-defined organizational levels, connected both
horizontally and vertically. Our knowledge is richer along the horizontal levels (eg inter …

Cadherins constitute a family of transmembrane proteins that mediate calcium-dependent
cell-cell adhesion. The extracellular domain of cadherins consists of extracellular cadherin …

The improvement of the human condition is the driver behind a vast amount of ongoing
research and naturally employs the most up-to-date methods in its endeavours. It has …

The cnidarian “planula” larva shows radial symmetry around a polarized, oral-aboral, body
axis and comprises two epithelia cell layers, ectodermal and endodermal. This simple body …

Cell–cell junctions, acting as 'secret handshakes', mediate cell–cell interactions and make
multicellularity possible. Work over the previous century illuminated key players comprising …

Background Vitamin D binding protein (VDBP) is an essential plasma carrier protein, which
plays possible roles in reproductive health, disease and so on. However, the effects of VDBP …

The architectural features of branching morphogenesis demonstrate exquisite reproducibility
among various organs and species despite the unique functionality and biochemical …

Epithelia must develop and grow into functional and organized tissues, which then need to
be maintained throughout adult life. Through a delicate balance between self-renewal …