Akankshi Munjal

The paper shows Yap mechanotransduction creates a self-limiting feedback loop for zebrafish semicircular canal formation, integrating mechanical forces and transcriptional responses to ensure robust development.

The paper shows hydrostatic pressure from the inflating otic vesicle shapes zebrafish semicircular canals, driving pillars toward a common geometry and ensuring vestibular function.

The paper uses single-cell RNA sequencing to analyze inner ear development in zebrafish, identifying cell states and genes involved in sensory patches, semicircular canals, and endolymphatic sac formation.

The paper identifies Lmx1b as a regulator of hyaluronan and Versican in zebrafish inner ear semicircular canal morphogenesis, showing how Versican controls hyaluronate density and hydration through its core and chondroitin side chains.

The paper shows that hyaluronate pressure, driven by local secretion and anisotropic tissue stiffness, shapes zebrafish semicircular canals without actomyosin contractility.