03-P015 Rho kinase is required for cohesive behaviour of neural crest cells during outflow tract morphogenesis

lar interactions and their local environment. Cell traction force microscopy (CTFM) was utilised to determine the exerted traction forces of individual cells on a coated elastic substrate. From knowledge of the elasticity of the gel (Young’s modulus) the displacement of the gel surface was used to calculate traction fields using finite element analysis (FEA). This initial data are being refined by integrating the positions of focal adhesions and organization of the filamentous actin cytoskeleton. This data are being used to interpret in vivo behaviours of these cells by knowledge of their in vitro characteristics.