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Cell migration in vivo is a complex process involving dynamic interactions between migrating cells and the tissue through which they migrate. In order to invade and migrate through a target tissue cells change shape, change adhesion properties and exert physical force. They also read guidance cues provided by the target tissue, telling them where to go and when to stop. Some cells, such as immune cells, migrate individually but in vivo many cells move in groups, collectively. Understanding the regulation of cell migration may lead to understanding of cancer progression, as acquisition of invasive migratory behavior contributes to tumor metastasis.

To analyze invasive cell migration at the molecular and cellular level in vivo, we study a specific migration event in the genetically tractable model organism, Drosophila melanogaster. At a specific time during oogenesis, a small cluster of about 8 cells, called border cells, delaminate from a monolayer epithelium of somatic cells, invade germ line tissue, and migrate to the oocyte. We investigate the genetic and cellular basis of this collective migration in order to answer two basic questions: how do stationary cells become migratory and, once migratory, how they perform directed migration. Becoming migratory is dependent on a transcriptional cascade, which is being investigated. We have also identified the guidance receptors, EGFR and PVR (PDGF/VEGF Receptor), and now investigate downstream events as well regulation of adhesion and collective migration dynamics.