Multiscale curvature modulates epithelial architecture and nuclear organization.

Abstract

Curved geometries are a defining feature of epithelial tissues, yet how cells integrate curvature cues across spatial scales remains unclear. Here, we combined wavy hydrogels with inducible self-rolling substrates to readily and independently impose local and large-scale curvatures on epithelial monolayers, recapitulating key geometric features of bronchiolar epithelia. By controlling the orientation of local curvature relative to the large-scale curvature set by the tube axis, we show that multiscale curvature induces scale-dependent and anisotropic remodeling of cell shape, nuclear organization, and tissue thickness. In contrast, nuclei maintain a robust and conserved three-dimensional geometry, with curvature primarily regulating nuclear orientation rather than shape. This hierarchical induction of specific changes to the tissue architecture shows that multiscale curvature sensing is a fundamental physical principle governing epithelial architecture.