tube formation

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

Creation of the central hole of a tube in an anatomical structure through which gases and/or liquids flow. [GOC:bf]

Tube formation is a fundamental biological process that involves the de novo formation of tubular structures from cells. This process is essential for the development and function of numerous organs and tissues, including blood vessels, lymphatic vessels, and the renal tubules. The formation of a tube requires coordinated cellular behaviors, including cell migration, adhesion, and differentiation.

**Key Steps in Tube Formation:**

1. **Cell Polarization:** The initial step in tube formation involves the polarization of cells, resulting in the establishment of an apical-basal axis. This polarization is driven by signaling pathways that induce the formation of specific protein complexes at the apical and basal poles of the cell.

2. **Cell Migration and Adhesion:** Polarized cells exhibit directed migration towards each other, guided by chemoattractants or other signaling molecules. As cells approach each other, they adhere via specific cell-cell adhesion molecules, such as cadherins.

3. **Cavity Formation:** Once cells have formed a cohesive structure, they start to create a lumen or cavity within the cell cluster. This cavity formation can occur through several mechanisms, including:
- **Apoptosis:** Programmed cell death of cells within the center of the cluster can create a lumen.
- **Cell Extrusion:** Cells within the center of the cluster can be actively extruded from the structure, contributing to cavity formation.
- **Secretion:** Cells can secrete extracellular matrix components that contribute to the formation of the lumen.

4. **Tubule Elongation and Branching:** As the lumen forms, the tube elongates and may undergo branching to create complex networks. Elongation occurs through the continued migration of cells along the apical-basal axis, while branching is often induced by signaling pathways that promote the formation of new buds.

**Regulation of Tube Formation:**

Tube formation is tightly regulated by a complex interplay of signaling pathways, including:

- **Growth Factors:** Growth factors like vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) stimulate angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels.
- **Extracellular Matrix:** The composition and organization of the extracellular matrix influence cell migration, adhesion, and differentiation.
- **Cytoskeletal Dynamics:** The cytoskeleton plays a critical role in cell shape, migration, and lumen formation.
- **Transcription Factors:** Transcription factors regulate the expression of genes involved in tube formation.

**Disruption of Tube Formation:**

Disruption of tube formation can lead to various developmental defects and diseases, including vascular malformations, lymphatic abnormalities, and renal disorders.

**In Summary:** Tube formation is a complex and highly regulated process that is essential for the development and function of numerous organs and tissues. Understanding the molecular mechanisms involved in tube formation is crucial for developing new therapeutic strategies for treating diseases associated with defects in this process.'
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Proteins (5)

Compounds (40)