Next Generation Embryology : JISC

Next Generation Embryology

Video See a 30 second video introducing this project

Background

Embryologists work in the context of 3D spatial frameworks, the anatomy of the developing organism. These frameworks change over time as the embryo develops, that is they have a temporal aspect. Data and knowledge are ideally organised in the same spatial frameworks. However, currently these are mostly situated in repositories where they can be searched upon via keywords and free text, rather than via images which are the basis of the 3D spatial framework. Results of these searches are presented as lists sorted mostly by relevance. Unfortunately, this type of presentation does not take into account the structure of the object of study.

Aims and objectives

In this project we aim to provide a presentation mechanism that maps results on to the object of study, here 3D models of developing embryos.

Methodology

This idea is similar to how geospatial data and information is presented in modern web-based applications, such as Google Maps and Google Earth. Take for instance the scenario where a conference delegate locates the conference venue on Google Maps and queries for hotels, so as to pick a hotel nearby the venue. In developmental biology, a student may query an anatomical component, for example the heart, after which she navigates a 3D model of the embryo to zoom in on a specific area in the heart to find information on that area that has been deposited.

We need to overcome many conceptual and technological challenges to make a generic spatio-temporal reference system for embryology. Geospatial data operates over a 2D map, whereas embryology has to take the full 3D of a growing organism into account. Geospatial data relies on one reference, the earth, whereas embryology has many organisms, in many stages of development and can even expand to models of abnormal
development. Geospatial data is obtained from photographic images that are then merged into one map, whereas embryo models are painstakingly reconstructed from sections seen under a microscope.

This project will create a first prototype that shows it is possible to organise teaching material for embryology by referencing it via 3D reconstructions of embryo models.

JISC