The cytoskeleton and associated proteins during cleavage, compaction and blastocyst differentiation in the pig

摘要: Abstract The organization of the cytoskeleton during early pig embryogenesis was investigated by using fluorescence and electron microscopy. morphogenesis embryo differed from that mouse, standard model mammalian development. In pig, both compaction polarization were gradual, definitive cell surface microville occurred first shortly before blastocyst formation; mouse are completed as at 8 stage. Furthermore, morula undergoes cycles de-compaction throughout its Distinct changes in distribution actin actin-associated proteins α-fodrin, vinculin E-cadherin coincided with these events. all molecules evenly distributed aspects blastomeres cleavage then gradually accumulated regions intercellular contacts toward stage; microfilaments trophectoderm cells formed a cortical meshwork associated apical microvilli adherent junctions (zonula adherens). corresponding occur earlier, Microtubules network-like layer beneath free outer surfaces blastomeres. Cytokeratin bundles not observed until blastocyst, where they characteristically newly desmosomes. species close correlation between morphologically defined developmental stages cytoskeleton: involved compaction, whereas appearance intermediate filament coincides building epithelium, trophectoderm; it is timing events contrast observed.