Developmental Biology & Genetics Program
Overview
The Developmental Biology and Genetics Program supports basic and pre-translational research on processes that underpin the development of craniofacial (CF) structures. Projects falling within the purview of this program may range from neural crest specification early in embryogenesis to the patterning, differentiation, and morphogenesis of the craniofacial complex, as well as the later development of teeth and craniofacial sutures. To advance our fundamental knowledge and understanding of the etiologies of congenital craniofacial anomalies that may be applied to improve prevention and treatment, studies exploring the following areas of craniofacial development are of interest to the program:
- Molecular signatures distinguishing changes in cell fate and behavior such as cell migration, cell polarity, cell-cell, and cell-ECM interactions during development and maldevelopment
- Spatiotemporal insights at the cellular and tissue level using new and emerging functional ‒omics technologies (e.g., genomics, epigenomics, proteomics, metabolomics)
- Growth factor and metabolite signaling pathways, particularly in context of gene-by-environment (GxE) studies, such as impact of prenatal nutrition and environmental exposures on craniofacial development
- Gene regulatory networks
- Genotype-phenotype studies of human genetic variants associated with structural congenital anomalies at molecular and cellular levels, using cutting-edge imaging, -omics, and other technologies in model systems
- Evo-devo studies that illuminate the regulation of craniofacial development and identify new genes involved in this process
Related Resources
Staff Contacts
Program Officer
Developmental Biology & Genetics Program