In recent years, a combination of new imaging techniques, genetics and computational biology have provided an integrated framework to explore biophysical phenomena with a resolution thus far difficult to achieve. We will discuss recent advances and new mechanisms arising in the field of developmental biophysics in several model organisms, extending also to development-related contexts such as tissue regeneration and tumorigenesis.

Embryonic development of an organism has classically been studied from a biologist’s point of view: using genetics, histology and microsurgery, among other tools. However, during development, embryos are subjected to physical phenomena that are intrinsic to their environment.

It is now clear that biophysical mechanisms have an impact in cell behavior and ultimately in growth, morphogenesis and patterning.

Topics:
- Ion dynamics in development, regeneration and disease;

- Cellular mechanosensing and mechanotransduction;

- Tissue mechanics and tension in morphogenesis;

- Morphogen gradients and pattern formation.