PhD Research

Context

Skull base synchondroses are cartilaginous growth plates situated at the junctions of the bones forming the cranial base. They are essential drivers of craniofacial growth, yet their biology and biomechanics remain poorly understood — particularly in pathological conditions like achondroplasia.

Approach

This project uses a multimodal, multiscale strategy to decipher the role of these structures. From molecular mapping with RNAscope and immunofluorescence, through volumetric 3D imaging via LightSheet microscopy on cleared specimens, to ex vivo biomechanical stimulation and a clinical atlas of human synchondroses spanning fetal life to skeletal maturity — each scale builds on the previous to form a comprehensive picture.

Both control and achondroplasia models (mouse and human) are investigated at every level.