Differential morphometric analysis of the anterior fontanelle in an embryonic avian model of induced-thyrotoxicosis.

Craniosynostosis (CS) is the premature fusion of cranial sutures during embryonic development, and this results in intracranial pressure skull deformities. Thyrotoxicosis, specifically maternal hyperthyroidism, has been linked to development CS. Our lab currently validating an avian model thyroxine-induced CS study mechanism involved thyroxine-enhanced ossification. We hypothesized that thyroxine exposure will alter morphology. Two groups fertilized chicken eggs were injected with saline or 25 ng T4 into air cell on days (E) 11 15. A set skulls from each group collected E17-19 (n = 17-21/day). They fixed formalin processed using Alizarin Red whole-mount staining, imaged (superior view), quantified determine alteration Geometric morphometric analysis MorphoJ was performed identify shape variation between treatment fibrous space ossifying regions anterior fontanelle. These preliminary demonstrated a significant gap developing 17, 18, 19 (p<0.05). Using same methodology, additional E19 both red Alcian blue staining better delineate region bone. Analysis progress. In conclusion, these findings support our successful promoting fusing bones through altered morphology visualized