Mechanical and metabolic control of limb morphogenesis

Tissue mechanical properties such as stiffness and fluidity are important factors in
guiding embryonic morphogenesis. However, how molecular signals regulate these
properties is still unclear. Recently, it has been shown that the vertebrate
anteroposterior axis elongates because glycolysis maintains the tissues in a fluid-like
state. In this project, the student will study the link between metabolism and tissue
mechanics in the developing limb. Using cutting-edge biophysical techniques, they will
measure how forces and mechanical properties change during limb formation. Second,
they will test the role of candidate metabolites, identified by spatial metabolomics, in
governing the mechanics of limb elongation.Project to be confirmed after rotation year