Collective dynamics of interacting cells during development

Multicellular organisms begin as a single cell with instructions encoded by the genome. During development this cell multiplies many times generating an enormous number of cells, each with its own specialized role. For example, developed humans are composed of trillions of cells but our organs and limbs have the right form, location, and function with little variability. It remains poorly understood how a process so complex and seemingly delicate can be so robust. Importantly, the assembly rules which guide development also govern how our bodies heal, age, and respond to disease. The goal of this project is to develop a novel predictive model of multicellular assembly by integrating mathematical modelling of gene regulation with data and expertise from leading experimentalists. By advancing our understanding of gene regulation in multicellular development, homeostasis, and disease, the long term goals of this research will enable innovations in drug design and tissue engineering.

Faculty Supervisor:

Anton Zilman

Student:

Partner:

Princeton University;Flatiron Institute

Discipline:

Physics

Sector:

Biotechnology; Health and Related Sciences & Technology; Life Sciences (not health)

University:

University of Toronto

Program: