Research in our lab
C. elegans brain: neurons labeled with a fluorescent marker
The brain is one of the most fascinating organs. Its development during embryogenesis is a complex process, which is only partially understood. My lab studies how neuronal circuits form in the embryo. Specifically we are studying genes required for the correct navigation of neuronal processes towards their targets, a process known as axon guidance.
Our lab uses a number of complementary approaches to identify and study genes involved in this navigation process. Techniques involve genetic screens and RNA interference to inactivate genes, bioinformatics to predict candidate genes and molecular biology tools to study gene expression. Characterization of developmental defects involves various microscopic techniques including fluorescence and confocal microscopy.
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News:
- Oct 2010: new publication on the role of FMI-1 in pioneer-mediated axon navigation
- June 2010: GExplore (a web interface for large-scale data mining of C. elegans genes) updated to WS210