Objective Successive processes of symmetry breaking are occurring during the sequence of early embryonic morphogenesis. These fascinating events raise fundamental questions that are still under debate and are challenging to investigate. In parallel, recent advances in fluorescent reporters, microscopy and image processing, make possible investigating the dynamics of large cell populations in a developing embryo. It led to the emergence of the in toto imaging concept and provides a unique opportunity to study embryonic development from the scale of the cellular mechanisms to the entire organism. In this context, the purpose of this proposal is to bring novel approaches and techniques of in toto imaging to dissect fundamental processes involved in anterior-posterior symmetry breaking and axis specification in early mammalian embryos. The combination, characterization and development of cutting-edge microscopy, optical manipulation and image processing techniques will enable us to investigate the collective movement of the visceral endoderm in early mouse embryo. This process is the first morphological event that breaks the anterior-posterior symmetry. This study should provide a detailed understanding of the mechanisms involved in the anterior-posterior polarity in mouse embryo. It should also illustrate the crucial role of individual cell behaviors in the emergence of large scale morphogenetic events. This interdisciplinary project will be conducted at Institut Jacques Monod (IJM, Paris). Willy Supatto, the principal investigator, will use his training and experience in optics, biophysics and developmental biology to start a new research activity within Jérôme Collignon’s team at IJM. Fields of science natural sciencesbiological sciencesdevelopmental biologynatural sciencesphysical sciencesopticsmicroscopynatural sciencesbiological sciencesbiophysicsmedical and health sciencesclinical medicineembryology Programme(s) FP7-PEOPLE - Specific programme "People" implementing the Seventh Framework Programme of the European Community for research, technological development and demonstration activities (2007 to 2013) Topic(s) FP7-PEOPLE-2009-RG - Marie Curie Action: "Reintegration Grants" Call for proposal FP7-PEOPLE-2010-RG See other projects for this call Funding Scheme MC-IRG - International Re-integration Grants (IRG) Coordinator CENTRE NATIONAL DE LA RECHERCHE SCIENTIFIQUE CNRS EU contribution € 100 000,00 Address RUE MICHEL ANGE 3 75794 Paris France See on map Region Ile-de-France Ile-de-France Paris Activity type Research Organisations Administrative Contact Philippe Cavelier (Mr.) Links Contact the organisation Opens in new window Website Opens in new window Total cost No data