# Investigating the Mechanical Properties of Vertebrate Notochord in Zebrafish

> **NIH NIH F31** · DUKE UNIVERSITY · 2024 · $42,002

## Abstract

ABSTRACT
The notochord is a conserved axial structure in all chordates that provides crucial structural support for the
embryonic axis and, in vertebrates, the vertebral column or spine. Despite its significant role during development,
the mechanical properties of the vertebrate notochord remain poorly understood. Unlike basal chordates, in
which the notochord is a continuous pressurized tube, in vertebrates, the notochord's interior is made of large
vacuolated cells. Each vacuolated cell contains one fluid-filled vacuole that occupies most of the cell volume.
Vacuolated cells have been proposed to facilitate symmetrical vertebrae formation by absorbing the force of
constricting vertebral bone growth on the notochord. Previous work showed that localized vacuolated cell defects
lead to spine deformities at the location of the compromised cells, suggesting that the notochord can respond
locally. Using acute mechanical stresses and genetic manipulations, I will investigate the structure's response to
perturbations and the specific role of the vacuoles in this response. This research is complemented with a training
plan that indlcudes didactic biology training and rigorous professional development within an interdisciplinary
environment to enhance the breadth of knowledge and expertise of the trainee.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10992500
- **Project number:** 1F31HD114438-01A1
- **Recipient organization:** DUKE UNIVERSITY
- **Principal Investigator:** Parsa Zareiesfandabadi
- **Activity code:** F31 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2024
- **Award amount:** $42,002
- **Award type:** 1
- **Project period:** 2024-09-01 → 2027-08-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10992500

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10992500, Investigating the Mechanical Properties of Vertebrate Notochord in Zebrafish (1F31HD114438-01A1). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-25 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10992500. Licensed CC0.

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