Research Description

Our research utilizes zebrafish, Xenopus and mice to discover the genes, molecular and cellular mechanisms that control asymmetric development of the brain, heart and gut. This research has enhanced our understanding of complex congenital cardiovascular disease, giving insights into complex cardiovascular defects that are among the leading causes of death in the first year. It has uncovered novel mechanisms that regulate cell signaling pathways, cell migration, and embryonic patterning. Given the importance of functional asymmetry in the brain, long-term work on the development of asymmetric gene function in the brain will provide insights into behavioral genetics.