Biology of Cornea Epithelial Stem Cells
Understanding the molecular and cellular events that regulate the biology of cornea stem cells and their ability to generate additional cell fates, such as lens cells, will further our knowledge and lead to the development of novel therapeutic approaches to treat disease and injury.
Generating Tools to Study Spiralian Development
Establishment of Crepidula as a model system has made it necessary to develop a plan to rear and study these animals in a lab environment. This project outlines details for collecting and transporting animals, setting up inland aquaria and maintaining laboratory colonies.
Evolution of Developmental Processes
This research aims to understand the evolution of developmental processes leading to the formation of diverse larval and adult body plans in a large group of protostome phyla referred to as the Spiralia. Studies point to significant levels of conservation in the functions of a number of transcriptional regulatory networks and cell signaling pathways during development. Our studies examine the role of key cellular and molecular mechanisms in the establishment of cell fates and axial properties in the Spiralia.
3D Embryos Project Information
The 3D Embryos Project is a collaborative effort to gather data and generate 3D models for a variety of organisms. Three dimensional models can be created from confocal microscopy or photography methods. General photography methods are ideal for physical embryo models, including wax or plastic samples. Anyone can view, download and print these 3D models in order to appreciate the complex morphogenetic processes that occur during development.