Polygonal pattern of folds - cow nose

3D ModelNoAI

3D surface reconstructions of an adult individual with maximum curvature highlighting the epidermal creases surrounding the polygonal domes.

Scientific context: The noses of many mammals, such as dogs, ferrets and cows, exhibit grooves forming a multitude of polygons bordered by creases that collect fluids and keep the nose wet. We have shown that differential growth of the skin tissue layers leads to the formation of domes, which are mechanically supported by the underlying blood vessels. This morphogenetic process, that we call ‘mechanical positional information’, could help explain the formation of other biological structures associated with blood vessels.

Check our graphical abstract here.

The Current Biology publication is available here.

Check the cover here.