Physical Sciences and Mathematics Commons^™

Finite Element Modelling Predicts Changes In Joint Shape And Cell Behaviour Due To Loss Of Muscle Strain In Jaw Development, Lucy H. Brunt, Joanna L. Norton, Jen A. Bright, Emily J. Rayfield, Chrissy L. Hammond

School of Geosciences Faculty and Staff Publications

Abnormal joint morphogenesis is linked to clinical conditions such as Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip (DDH) and to osteoarthritis (OA). Muscle activity is known to be important during the developmental process of joint morphogenesis. However, less is known about how this mechanical stimulus affects the behaviour of joint cells to generate altered morphology. Using zebrafish, in which we can image all joint musculoskeletal tissues at high resolution, we show that removal of muscle activity through anaesthetisation or genetic manipulation causes a change to the shape of the joint between the Meckel's cartilage and Palatoquadrate (the jaw joint), such that the …