Understanding the development and growth of the zebrafish (Danio rerio) infraorbital bones

Abstract

This study investigates the development of the neural crest derived infraorbital bones of the zebrafish (Danio rerio). Located around the underside of the orbit, the infraorbital bones ossify intramembranously in a set sequence and are closely associated with the lateral line sensory system. I conducted detailed analyses of the condensation to ossification phases of development of these bones, analysed infraorbital bone development via a series of skeletogenic condensation laser ablation experiments, and the neuromasts associated with the infraorbital bones were ablated at multiple time-points in order to investigate their highly debated inductive potential for infraorbital ossification. The results of this study highlight the developmental robustness of the infraorbital bones. The recovery of ablated structures demonstrates rescue mechanisms that allowed for the series to develop normally following perturbation. The mechanisms of developmental robustness should be investigated further as the infraorbital bones can be used to increase understanding of intramembranous bone patterning.