Our laboratory has interests in the area of developmental biology. As one approach to this problem, we utilize the Cnidarian, Hydra, as an experimental epithelial model. Hydra was chosen because of its simple structure and high regenerative capacity.
Hydra is composed of a mouth, gastric cavity, and a foot process.
The organism has about 20 cell types which have specific localization patterns along the longitudinal axis of hydra. Although the cellular distribution pattern along the longitudinal axis is always maintained, the cells that make up hydra are in a constant state of turnover. To approach the role of matrix components in this process we have isolated hydra ECM and have determined by biochemical and molecular cloning techniques that it is composed of a full spectrum of matrix components such as laminin, collagens, and proteoglycans. Through the development of a number of in vivo and in vitro bioassays we have determined that ECM and its components are critical to hydra morphogenesis and pattern formation. In addition we have isolated and cloned a number of metalloproteinases that are matrix-associated and appear related to ECM degradation and growth factor activation.