Electrophoretic Properties, Cell Surface Morphology and Calcium in Amphibian Gastrulation

The process of gastrulation is characterized by extensive morphogenetic movements, cell shape changes and intercellular rearrangements. This paper presents the results and inferences of experimental analysis of these events. Cell electrokinetic mobility, which is a measure of net cell surface charge density, cell surface morphological changes, and the role of calcium are aspects of gastrular events which we believe play a significant role. Our hypothesis is that these parameters are interrelated and we offer suggestions with respect to the interrelationships and how these aspects mediate morphogenetic movements.