Delineating functional roles between the interstitial matrix and the basement membrane during cardiac valve formation (B12#)

• Subject Area: Cell Biology
• Term: since 2023
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 386797833

Formation of the cardiac valves is critical for heart function. Valve development requires two extracellular matrix (ECM) types, the basement membrane and the interstitial matrix. Here we study their roles during cardiac morphogenesis. Using zebrafish, we will uncover the functions of core components of basement membrane and interstitial matrix during valvulogenesis at single cell resolution. Moreover, we investigate feedback mechanisms between cardiac contraction- and blood flow-induced mechanical forces and ECM dynamics.

• DFG Programme: Collaborative Research Centres
• Subproject of: SFB 1348: Dynamic cellular interfaces: formation and function
• Applicant Institution: Universität Münster
• Project Head: Felix Gunawan, Ph.D.