Understanding how cells migrate
Migration of cells in response to chemicals in the external environment is vital for the correct functioning of all life from bacteria to multi-cellular organisms. Understanding the mechanisms involved is central to studies of normal development as well as disease states like cancer. This special issue of the journal Integrative biology highlights the contributions of novel tools and technologies to this important field.
A broad spectrum of technology and biology is included: topics covered include neutrophil and Dictyostelium chemotaxis, mechanobiology, amoeboid migration and the application of microfluidics to the study of directed cell migration. Technology for in vivo studies and improved methods for studying axon guidance are also included. Finally, the role of chemotaxis in cancer is examined.
“The integration of technology and biology has matured further here than in many other areas of biological study” says David Beebe from the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s department of biomedical engineering. “The papers in this issue highlight advances in technology that allow investigators to address fundamental questions about directed migration that provide insight into basic mechanisms and provide tools for drug discovery and clinical intervention” he added.
Original publication: David J. Beebe and Anna Huttenlocher, Integr. Biol., 2010, 2, 559-560.
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