Notochordal centra of salmon

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

Our focus

One of the most salient features of the vertebrate embryo is the repeated assemblages of similar parts – the body axis forms as a series of repeated anatomical modules made up of individual vertebrae, blood vessels, peripheral nerves and muscle. The groups of animals called “vertebrates” are defined by their vertebral column, which is composed of a pattern of alternating bony vertebral bodies and intervertebral discs. However, there is still a dispute concerning how the vertebra develops in the embryo to form segments – in other words, how the modularly constructed column of vertebral bones, is formed. Thus, in addressing this question, our research is relevant in gaining a solid understanding of how the final layout of the vertebrate body is achieved – in this plan the vertebral column is a key structure.

Researchers in the group undertake both structural and molecular studies of the notochordal cells and sheath, mineralization processes within the notochord and the differentiation of the tissues of the vertebral column, such as bone, cartilage and connective tissue.