Live imaging to elucidate cell dynamics in tooth organogenesis and regeneration

Abstract Background Tooth development involves epithelial–mesenchymal interactions, and its molecular mechanisms have been elucidated in various studies of growth factor signaling. However, there are discordances between the inferred molecular mechanisms and histological observations of shape changes of the growing tooth germ. To clarify the mechanisms of tooth morphogenesis, direct observations of cell dynamics are essential. Highlight A technique for direct observations of cell dynamics and morphological changes in the developing tooth germ has not been developed. Here, we present our observations of cell dynamics during tooth morphogenesis and review new imaging techniques used in recent studies. We also describe the importance of live imaging and its potential applications in the field. Conclusion Time-lapse imaging is a useful tool for understanding cell movement and cell lineages, and will contribute the elucidation of the mechanisms of tooth development.