Developmental Biology

Developmental Biology

Developmental biology studies how a single cell, resulting from fertilization, can give rise to a complete organism composed of many different types of cells, tissues, and organs. Within the RQR, several researchers aim to decipher the key mechanisms involved in regulating the growth and development of complex organisms.

Research on cell signaling and tissue differentiation helps us understand how cells communicate to coordinate the development of various tissues and organs. Alexandre Boyer studies Hippo signaling in testicular and adrenal development, as well as the differentiation of Sertoli cells in the testes. Derek Boerboom is interested in the Wnt, Hippo, and Slit/Robo pathways, which are known for their important roles in embryonic development. Guillaume St-Jean’s work focuses on the TGF-β, Wnt, and Hippo pathways in uterine development and in the emergence of uterine diseases such as endometriosis and fibroids. Transcription factors that regulate the development of the pituitary gland—and consequently, the development and function of the reproductive organs (gonads)—are among the research themes of Jacques Drouin.

The early stages of embryonic development are particularly important, as they lay the foundation for the entire body by organizing the position of future organs, forming the first tissues, and guiding cells to adopt their specific roles. The teams of Lawrence C. Smith, Werner Giehl Glanzner, Vilceu Bordignon, Claude Robert, and Julie Brind’Amour focus on these early embryonic stages, exploring the epigenetic regulation of embryonic genome activation, reprogramming mechanisms, and the dynamics of the maternal epigenome. These studies are closely linked to the work of Sarah Kimmins, Serge McGraw, and Sophie Petropoulos, who analyze how the prenatal environment and early exposures durably influence developmental trajectories through epigenetic programming mechanisms.

Errors during embryonic development can disrupt the normal formation of organs and tissues, leading to congenital malformations present at birth. Jacquetta Trasler’s research focuses on how the environment—including diet, medications, and toxins—interacts with our genes to cause growth disorders and birth defects in children. In addition, the work of Loydie Jerome-Majewska helps to better understand the mechanisms involved in the development of structures that will form the face and crane during embryonic growth. Aimee Ryan’s lab studies claudin proteins, which ensure cell cohesion during embryogenesis, to better understand how certain genetic mutations and environmental factors can cause congenital malformations and contribute to their prevention.

Nicolas Pilon’s lab studies neurocristopathies, a group of rare genetic diseases caused by defects in neural crest cells—highly versatile stem cells that give rise to many different cell types, which explains why these diseases can affect various parts of the body in different ways.

Isabelle Plante’s research focuses in part on the normal development of the breast, which depends on good communication between different cells, both in the supporting tissue (stroma) and in the milk-producing tissue (epithelium).

The development of germ cells is one of the fundamental research themes in developmental biology, as these cells are responsible for transmitting genetic material to the next generation. In particular, Jean-Claude Labbé studies the development of germ cells from the germline syncytium, a structure in which several cells remain connected by small channels, allowing the exchange of nutrients, proteins, and other essential elements for their development. In parallel, research on follicular differentiation, gametogenesis, and the maintenance of female fertility, led by Marc-André Sirard, Bruce Murphy, Kalidou Ndiaye, Bernhard Payer, Claude Robert, and Greg FitzHarris, helps to clarify the links between oocyte quality, cell division, and embryonic development potential. Yojiro Yamanaka is interested in the evolution and development of female reproductive organs in vertebrates. The development of germ cells in males is a major focus for Makoto Nagano, who studies the stem cells that produce sperm (spermatogonial stem cells, SSCs). Jacques Tremblay also studies how Leydig cells, which are responsible for testosterone production, form and function.

The complex processes of placentation and the interactions between the mother, the placenta, and the fetus play a central role in developmental biology, as they are essential for the fetus’s healthy growth, the proper course of pregnancy, and the regulation of vital exchanges between the two organisms. William Pastor’s work aims to understand the mechanisms of placenta formation and the role of specialized cells called trophoblasts in this process. The research conducted by Rima Slim and Cathy Vaillancourt improves our understanding of the complex processes of placentation and mother-placenta-fetus interactions, particularly in the context of gene mutations, exposure to endocrine disruptors, stress, or obstetrical complications.

Together, this research forms a multidisciplinary body of work that addresses current issues in developmental biology and opens new perspectives for reproductive medicine, maternal-fetal health, and the prevention of developmental disorders.