Effectors of tridimensional cell morphogenesis and their evolution

► We review recent findings on how epithelial cells produce distinct apical extensions. ► We focus on regulatory mechanisms and cell effectors of this 3D differentiation. ► Comparing differentiation of Drosophila epidermis and mouse cochlea. ► Increasing diversity of cell effectors and their interaction with basic machineries. ► Evolutionary conservation and diversification of the involved mechanisms.