The Black Lab

The molecular and genetic bases for most human diseases remain unknown. We use a combination of gene knockouts, transgenic reporter assays, biochemical, computational, and genomic approaches to investigate basic mechanisms involved in normal development and tissue homeostasis in adults. We primarily use the mouse as a model system, but several current projects also use cultured cells, zebrafish, Drosophila, and biochemical approaches as models. Our major goals are to define how organs develop and are maintained and how mutations and other perturbations result in birth defects and postnatal disease. We also seek pathways to target for disease prevention or treatment.

 

Current projects in the lab include: 1) molecular mechanisms underlying amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and other forms of neurodegeneration (example here); 2) regulation of cardiac outflow tract development and the molecular bases of cyanotic cardiac birth defects (example here); 3) molecular control of cardiovascular transcription (examples here and here); 4) regulation of neural crest gene expression (examples here and here); and 5) identification and application of transcriptional regulatory elements for cardiac regeneration (example here).

 
 

 

Postdoctoral positions are available. Please E-mail Brian to inquire.