Neural-mesodermal progenitor interactions in pattern formation: an introduction to the collection

Editorial

Clonal analysis indicated that trunk neural and mesodermal progenitors share a common lineage at an early developmental stage (Tzouanacou et al., 2009). These dual-fated neuromesodermal precursors then segregate and further differentiate into either spinal cord or somite precursors. With the aim of elucidating how these fates bifurcate, researchers recently set out to recapitulate their differentiation pathways in vitro departing from embryonic stem cells (Gouti et al., 2014). Notably, the above lineages born from common precursors exhibit close interactions during later development that play pivotal roles in patterning body plans and specific body systems. For example, graded mesodermal signals control the timing of neuronal differentiation in the spinal cord (Wilson et al., 2009); somitic signals control the proliferation, delamination, segmental migration and patterning of neural crest-derived peripheral ganglia and, reciprocally, neural crest cells pattern the organization of mesodermal derivatives (i.e; muscles) in both the head and trunk (Kalcheim, 2011).

Thus, the cross-talk between these developing systems is highly dynamic and reiterative. Emerging data highlight additional interactions between mesoderm and neural progenitors in development of gut innervation, craniofacial patterning, etc. and much more is yet to be discovered.

This collection aims to be a platform for original reports, review articles and opinions that expand our understanding on tissue patterning during development including the generation of these tissues and the molecular nature of their interactions.