Chondrocyte to osteoblastic conversion in bone development and repair

Summary

Bone can form via two fundamental processes - intramembranous bone formation (where mesenchymal cells differentiate directly into osteoblasts) and endochondral ossification (where bone is preceded by cartilage). Both processes are critical for normal skeletal development. In long bone repair the endochondral processes of embryogenesis are recapitulated with a cartilage soft callus preceding bone. In other defect models intramembranous processes predominate.

Supervisor(s)

Dr Aaron Schindeler, Professor David Little

Research Location

Westmead - Children's Hospital at Westmead Clinical School

Program Type

PHD

Synopsis

In this PhD project the fundamental role of chondrocyte to osteoblastic conversion will be examined in cell, developmental, and orthopaedic models. Our group has access to unique inducible conditional reporter mice and knockout mouse lines that will allow these fundamental processes to be examined. The project will involve a variety of skills although key methods include confocal microscopy, immunofluorescence, mouse genetic models and flow cytometry. The PhD student will initially be working closely with a post-doctoral scientist to learn new techniques but will be expected to work with increasing independence.

We are looking for an enthusiastic, motivated student looking to undertake a PhD. A strong candidate will be able to work as part of a multidisciplinary research team and have strong written/oral communication skills. The capacity to attract an independent scholarship (first class honours, prior publications) will be looked upon extremely favourably.

Additional Information

PhD scholarships/APA top-ups available to be judged based on the strength of the applicant. For more information contact Dr Aaron Schindeler on + 61 2 9845 1451 

Keywords

Bone, osteoblasts, endochondral ossification, embryogenesis, mesenchymal cells

Opportunity ID

The opportunity ID for this research opportunity is: 1621

Other opportunities with Dr Aaron Schindeler

• The cellular determinants of bone repair
• Understanding Bone Unloading and Loading and Healing Responses

Other opportunities with Professor David Little

• The cellular determinants of bone repair
• Understanding Bone Unloading and Loading and Healing Responses