Objective Separation of the shoulders from the head to create a functional neck was an important step in the conquest of land, as it is crucial for land-living vertebrates (tetrapods) to move their heads freely from the body. The origin and evolution of the neck is currently a research area of considerable interest, with in-depth molecular analysis performed in both the chicken and the mouse (derived tetrapods). What this research shows is that although the shoulders are freed from the head, they are still connected via a network of muscles, and that the development of these muscles is controlled by a specialised group of cells known as neural crest cells. However, comparative studies on this region in fish ancestors, lacking a functional neck, have not been performed. Did these features evolve in response to the separation of the head from the shoulders? Or, are the same muscles and developmental mechanisms present in fish ancestors lacking a neck (head and shoulders connected by a series of bones)? To answer these questions, we will study representatives of more primitive tetrapods and fish ancestors to the tetrapods, including the paddlefish, the Australian lungfish, and the Mexican axolotl. This research will be done in conjunction with project partners in the USA, Australia and Germany. In our experiments, we will use several different types of markers to track migration and development of muscles, neural crest cells, and the skull and shoulder girdle bones, and how these interact during early ontogeny. Our hypothesis is that the results in the muscle connectivity observed in the chicken and mouse will also be present in these fish and tetrapod ancestors, with the involvement of the same (homologous) muscles, and moreover, that neural crest cells will be involved in the development of these muscles and the bones to which they connect. Fields of science medical and health sciencesmedical biotechnologycells technologiesstem cells 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-IIF - Marie Curie Action: "International Incoming Fellowships" Call for proposal FP7-PEOPLE-2009-IIF See other projects for this call Funding Scheme MC-IIF - International Incoming Fellowships (IIF) Coordinator NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM EU contribution € 174 240,80 Address CROMWELL ROAD SW7 5BD London United Kingdom See on map Region London Inner London — West Kensington & Chelsea and Hammersmith & Fulham Activity type Public bodies (excluding Research Organisations and Secondary or Higher Education Establishments) Administrative Contact Zerina Johanson (Dr.) Links Contact the organisation Opens in new window Website Opens in new window Total cost No data
