Musculoskeletal Study of Limb Development in Vertebrates by Magnetic Resonance Imaging Microscopy. (360G-Wellcome-081039_Z_06_Z)

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) microscopy will be used to study embryonic development in vertebrates, in particular chicks, as a model for the investigation of human limb deformities. The chick embryo will be studied from the appearance of limb buds in Day 3 embryos through to wing formation. The anatomical changes during development will be characterised, with particular reference to organogenesis of the limbs. MRI parameters such as relaxation rates will be quantified to give insights into t he tissue s microscopic morphology. The rate of the limb outgrowth and rate of bone ossification will be measured. MRI will also be used to observe the formation, differentiation and striation of muscles and growth of tendons and blood vessels. Once the three-dimensional chick anatomy has been systematically characterized, the anatomy will be compared with experimentally manipulated chicks. Ultimately the MRI of the development of live chick embryo will be studied overtime as the embryo grows in side the egg. MRI contrast agents will be used to follow specific biological processes. Chick embryos are uniquely suited for testing new contrast agent experiments. This project will be to open up novel ways of looking deeper into the developing embryo.