The mechanical forces that shape our senses

Developing organs are shaped, in part, by physical interaction with their environment in the embryo. In recent years, technical advances in live-cell imaging and material science have greatly expanded our understanding of the mechanical forces driving organ formation. Here, we provide a broad overview of the types of forces generated during embryonic development and then focus on a subset of organs underlying our senses: the eyes, inner ears, nose and skin. The epithelia in these organs emerge from a common origin: the ectoderm germ layer; yet, they arrive at unique and complex forms over developmental time. We discuss exciting recent animal studies that show a crucial role for mechanical forces in, for example, the thickening of sensory placodes, the coiling of the cochlea and the lengthening of hair. Finally, we discuss how microfabricated organoid systems can now provide unprecedented insights into the physical principles of human development.

Automated summary

Developing organs are influenced by physical interaction with the embryo's environment. Recent advancements in live-cell imaging and material science have enhanced our understanding of the mechanical forces driving organ formation. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the forces involved in embryonic development and focuses on specific organs related to our senses, such as the eyes, inner ears, nose, and skin. The review highlights animal studies that demonstrate the crucial role of mechanical forces in processes like sensory placode thickening, cochlea coiling, and hair lengthening. Additionally, the article discusses how microfabricated organoid systems offer unparalleled insights into the physical principles of human development.