The mechanics of early embryo development: Insights from finite element modeling

Abstract

A finite element-based simulation of neurulation, a critical developmental event common to all vertebrates, is presented for an amphibian embryo. During this process, a sheet of tissue rolls up to form a tube, the precursor of the spinal cord and brain. Material property data for the simulation are based on the cellular fabric of the tissues and on tensile test data, and geometric data are obtained from three-dimensional reconstructions. A spatio-temporal correlation system is used to organize and correlate the data and to construct the finite element model. The simulations predict morphogenetic movements similar to those which occur in real embryos. © 2006 Springer.