Genetics of Neural Development Using Zebrafish as a Model System

Research Interests

Neural Precursor Cells                               Neural Cell Lineage

Neuronal and Glial Fate Specification        Neural Cell Migration

Oligodendrocyte Differentiation                 Midline Development

Our goal is to identify genes important to development of the vertebrate nervous system and learn how they work. We use zebrafish as a model system as the embryos are transparent and they develop outside the mother; thus, we can observe neural development as it occurs in an intact, living embryo. We identify genes using both genetic and molecular methods. We test gene functions by investigating the consequences of mutations and ectopic gene expression, driven by conditionally regulated transgenes. We also use transgenes to express fluorescent reporter proteins in specific types of neural cells. For example, we can identify oligodendrocytes, the myelinating cell type of the central nervous system, as they are specified, migrate to their target axons and differentiate. The genetic functions we identify that are important for oligodendrocyte development might be useful for therapies designed to treat spinal cord injury and demyelinating diseases such as multiple sclerosis.

            Motor neurons and oligodendrocytes expressing GFP.