The role of Wnt signaling in controlling neuromesodermal progenitor cell plasticity in teleost species (B11*)

• Subject Area: General Genetics and Functional Genome Biology ; Animal Physiology and Biochemistry ; Developmental Biology
• Term: since 2026
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 331351713

In this project, we will investigate how Wnt signaling gates the fate decisions of neuromesodermal progenitor cells in two fish species, zebrafish and medaka, during posterior axis development. Using a combination of advanced functional tools (e.g. Wnt reporters, fate mapping, endogenous TF-tagging), single-cell transcriptomics, and live imaging, we will test the impact of Wnt signaling on the fate decisions and how this conserved population integrates a common pathway to coordinate distinct outcomes between two species.

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