In vitro generation of human limb-like cells

The human limb is a complex anatomical structure that is of major relevance in terms of clinical malformations and its potential for tissue regeneration. However, we know little about how human limbs develop because in vivo analyses are not possible. The proposed PhD project aims to address this issue by developing a three-dimensional (3D) in vitro model of human limb development. Based on the use of human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC) differentiation in combination with gene expression analysis, fluorescence imaging and classic chick embryology techniques, the PhD project will specifically define the optimal culture conditions for producing the progenitors of the forelimb and hindlimb from hPSCs, test their ability to self-organise into 3-dimenstional limb bud-like structures ('limboids') as well as integrate within chick limb buds following transplantation. The project's ultimate goal is to establish an efficient platform for the production of human limb cells for tissue engineering/replacement purposes and disease modelling applications.