Assistant Professor

BS Northwestern University
MD Northwestern University School of Medicine

Honors:

PSDP Fellow
Kingsley Fellowship in Medical Research

Research Interests:

Establishment of Vertebrate Body Plan
Embryonic Patterning and gene regulatory networks
Xenopus (frog) Genetics

Current Research:

We are interested in how embryonic pattern is generated. During development, the egg which exhibits cylindrical symmetry must undergo a number of symmetry breaking events in order to form the vertebrate body plan and establish correct pattern along the body axes. We are deeply interested in the gene regulatory networks that are necessary to create critical signals in specific embryonic locations at appropriate developmental stages. These signals must be carefully orchestrated in order to generate forms that are essential to function and the overall fitness of the organism. Using the frog, Xenopus tropicalis, as an efficient vertebrate model system, we are developing genetic tools to dissect these gene regulatory networks. We are performing forward and reverse genetic screens to identify mutants that affect early embryonic patterning. In addition, we are developing new technologies to create F0 transgenic Xenopus embryos to rapidly and easily analyze cis- regulatory elements that are essential to the formation of regulatory genetic networks. These studies are then complemented by mouse genetics to determine conserved functions in mammals and better approximate human biology.

Khokha M.K., Yeh J., Grammer T.C., Harland RM. Depletion of Three BMP Antagonists from Spemann's Organizer Leads to a Catastrophic Loss of Dorsal Structures. Developmental Cell 2005 Mar;8(3):401-11.