Intrinsic heterogeneity and interactions with niches regulate trauma-induced osteoblast dedifferentiation and migration during zebrafish regeneration (C03)

• Subject Area: Developmental Biology ; Cell Biology
• Term: since 2015
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 251293561

We continued to explore mechanisms underlying the enhanced ability of zebrafish to regenerate bone after traumatic injury. Surprisingly, we found that different posttraumatic responses of osteoblasts (dedifferentiation, migration, and regenerative bone formation) occur independently of each other and are regulated by distinct molecular signals. Therefore, we will further explore the interrelationship of different trauma responses. We also found evidence that osteoblast responses depend on signals acting not in the osteoblasts themselves, but in adjacent tissues. Finally, our work indicates that osteoblasts display previously unrecognized heterogeneity during bone homeostasis and after trauma. We will resolve osteoblast heterogeneity and molecular transition stages during dedifferentiation using single cell RNA sequencing.

• DFG Programme: Collaborative Research Centres
• Subproject of: SFB 1149: Danger Response, Disturbance Factors and Regenerative Potential after Acute Trauma
• Applicant Institution: Universität Ulm
• Project Head: Professor Dr. Gilbert Weidinger