Presentation
Our team has had a long standing interest in the mechanisms controlling the establishment of cell fate in the early embryo, using the small genetics-prone vertebrate zebrafish as a model system. It is critical to understand, in cellular and molecular terms how the first regions of the embryo are defined, how cells establish their identity and adopt the proper position within the embryo.
A large part of our studies initially focused on the development of the endoderm, at the origin of the digestive tract, both in terms of cell fate control and movement. Indeed, formation of the endoderm relies on the activation of specific signalling pathways, through the action of extracellular molecules such as the Transforming Growth Factor beta-related molecules Nodals, and represent one of the paradigm to study the process of embryonic induction. Also, endoderm cells, similar to many cell types, including metastatic cancer cells, move extensively and precisely and represent an interesting model to approach gastrulation, the first major period of morphogenesis (generation of shape).
One of the endoderm mutants we had been studying (casanova) exhibited a loss of motility, prompting us to study the relationship between the corresponding gene and the development of motor neurons. Last, in addition to being a good model to study development, zebrafish larvae and adult exhibit complex behaviours prompting us to start using this animal as a model to approach the fascinating issue of the control of behaviour.
Last update : 5 October 2006