Directory
Two new teams for the LBMC !
The general context of Muriel Grammont’s team research addresses the following question : what are the cellular, molecular and mechanical mechanisms that link epithelial cell differentiation to morphogenesis ? Our model is the cuboidal-to-squamous transition that occurs during the course of ovarian follicle development in Drosophila. This cell flattening depends on a genetic program that allow stereotyped adherens junction remodelling, on the pressure exerted by the growth of the underlying germline cells and on the stiffness of the surrounding basement membrane. We seek to identify the genes involved in cell shape changes and to determine the mechanical properties of the germline cells, the follicular cells and the basement membrane. To do so, we combine molecular tools, morphometry, and physical measurements, and we integrate these data in computational models to obtain an integrated view of morphogenesis.
The team of Marie Semon and Sophie Pantalacci is interested in questions at the interface of (evolutionary) developmental biology and comparative genomics. Our research program uses a range of methods, integrating the study of embryonic development, genome expression, and genome evolution with quantitative and modeling approaches. We study multiple rodent model organisms, both established and emerging. The development of molar teeth is our primary focus. We use a comparative analysis of evolutionary convergence, in an effort to reveal the generative principles how specific organ form and function are acquired both during development and during evolution, and how development and evolution influence each other. Does parallel evolution of form or function necessitate parallel evolution of the same genes ? Do teeth that have convergently evolved the same novel form develop this form in the same manner ? How does evolutionary history facilitate the acquisition of new shapes or highlight the nature of developmental mechanisms ?