Mechanism of oscillatory Wnt signaling dynamics and its role in vertebrate embryos (B02)

• Subject Area: Developmental Biology
• Term: since 2017
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 331351713

The mechanism underlying oscillatory Wnt signaling dynamics and its link to metabolic activity during vertebrate embryonic development will be addressed in the context of the embryonic somite segmentation clock. To this end, a quantitative approach that combines real-time imaging of customized Wnt reporter knock-in lines, new genetic animal models and time-resolved functional perturbations will be used. The project is based on established in vitro and in vivo segmentation clock models, including the mouse and medaka. A particular aim is to reveal core mechanistic principles underlying Wnt signaling dynamics and its link to metabolic pathways, enabling comparison to other developmental disease models.

• DFG Programme: Collaborative Research Centres
• Subproject of: SFB 1324: Mechanisms and functions of Wnt signaling
• Applicant Institution: Ruprecht-Karls-Universität Heidelberg
• Project Head: Dr. Alexander Aulehla